This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Wednesday, July 22, 2026 (52 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 (one square holds more than one letter)
First letter
B followed by 3 more squares
First and last letters
B followed by 3 more squares
Show the answer
About the answer
BOTTLECAP as a word: Alternative form of bottle cap. [Any of several designs of closure used to seal bottles.].
BOTTLECAP has been an answer 2 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since July 22, 2026.
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