This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Friday, January 2, 2026 (9 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Friday puzzles are themeless and hard, with clues that are vague on purpose.
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: 10 squares
First letter
S _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
S _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ M
Show the answer
SELFESTEEM
About the answer
SELFESTEEM has been an answer once in the NYT Crossword and Mini puzzles we have on file, which go back to October 23, 2025.
More clues from this puzzle
- Modern security threat (5 Down)
- Org. with the Rule of Law Initiative (6 Down)
- Cylindrical oven (7 Down)
- Extremely well-liked? (8 Down)
- Hooting and hollering (10 Down)
- Part of an underground network (11 Down)
- Pithy put-downs (12 Down)
- Main ingredient in an aviation cocktail (14 Down)
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