This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, January 15, 2026 (63 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.
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: 3 squares
First letter
M _ _
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About the answer
MAT as a word: A flat piece of coarse material used for wiping one’s feet, or as a decorative or protective floor covering; A small flat piece of material used to protect a surface from anything hot or rough; a coaster.
MAT has been an answer 7 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since January 15, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
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