This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (34 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Tuesday puzzles are a step up from Monday but still mostly straightforward.
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
P _ _ _
First and last letters
P _ _ E
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About the answer
PILE as a word: A mass of things heaped together; a heap; (informal) A group or list of related items up for consideration, especially in some kind of selection process.
PILE has been an answer 5 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since December 5, 2025.
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