This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Sunday, January 18, 2026 (109 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Sunday puzzles are large (21 by 21) and themed, about as hard as a Wednesday or Thursday.
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
R _ _
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About the answer
REF as a word: (informal, ambitransitive) To referee; to act as a referee in a sport or game; A surname.
REF has been an answer 7 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since November 16, 2025.
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