This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 (21 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Tuesday puzzles are a step up from Monday but still mostly straightforward.
Answer length: 3 squares
First letter
R _ _
Show the answer
About the answer
RUB as a word: (transitive) To move (one object) while maintaining contact with another object over some area, with pressure and friction; (intransitive) To be rubbed against something.
RUB has been an answer 2 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since October 26, 2025.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- R&B singer Redding (15 Across)
- Title girl in a Beach Boys hit (16 Across)
- Thin Mints and Tagalongs (17 Across)
- In danger of being lost (20 Across)
- Sci-fi character who says "Your father, he is" (22 Across)
- Successor to F.D.R. (23 Across)
- Midwest capital named for a president (24 Across)
- One in a breakfast chain? (26 Across)
Play today's NYT Crossword at The New York Times
All crossword clues · Today's NYT Crossword answers · Today's Mini answers