This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Sunday, November 1, 2026 (40 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: 6 squares
First letter
S _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
S _ _ _ _ E
Show the answer
About the answer
SLUICE as a word: An artificial passage for water, fitted with a valve or gate, for example in a canal lock or a mill stream, for stopping or regulating the flow; A water gate or floodgate.
SLUICE has been an answer once in the NYT Crossword and Mini puzzles we have on file, which go back to October 23, 2025.
More clues from this puzzle
- Like a juicy fruit (29 Across)
- Appetizers, entree or dessert (30 Across)
- Lead-in to coin (36 Across)
- Lacking excess (39 Across)
- ___ Vista, Calif. (41 Across)
- Handed out new hands (42 Across)
- Dude (45 Across)
- Not as straight, as hair (46 Across)
Play today's NYT Crossword at The New York Times
All crossword clues · Today's NYT Crossword answers · Today's Mini answers