This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, March 5, 2026 (53 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: 6 squares
First letter
A _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
A _ _ _ _ S
Show the answer
About the answer
ALLEYS as a word: A narrow street or passageway, especially one through the middle of a block giving access to the rear of lots of buildings; (bowling) An establishment where bowling is played.
ALLEYS has been an answer 2 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since January 26, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
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- Pee Wee of baseball (54 Down)
- Serve, as soup (56 Down)
- Pack it in? (61 Down)
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