This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 (10 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
First letter
C _ _ _
First and last letters
C _ _ S
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About the answer
COTS as a word: Acronym of commercial/consumer off-the-shelf, ready-made merchandise that is available for sale, defined by market need, significant functionality and comple...; (NASA, space science) Acronym of Commercial Orbital Transportation Services, a program for delivery to the International Space Station by private companies.
COTS has been an answer 3 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since February 24, 2026.
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