This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 (39 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Wednesday sits mid-week in difficulty, with more wordplay than Monday or Tuesday.
How to read this clue
The question mark warns of wordplay. Expect a pun or a second meaning rather than a straight definition.
Answer length: 4 squares
First letter
S _ _ _
First and last letters
S _ _ S
Show the answer
About the answer
SASS as a word: (US) Backtalk, cheek, sarcasm; (intransitive, US, informal) To talk, to talk back.
SASS has been an answer 15 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since February 11, 2026.
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