This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, April 16, 2026 (59 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Thursday puzzles often have a trick, such as a rebus (several letters in one square) or answers that bend the rules.
Answer length: 3 squares
First letter
P _ _
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About the answer
PAT as a word: To (gently) tap the flat of one's hand on a person or thing; A light tap or slap, especially with the hands.
PAT has been an answer 6 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since March 9, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- Meander (53 Down)
- Fig. with two hyphens (56 Down)
- Modern intensifying suffix (57 Down)
- Journalist Curry (58 Down)
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