This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Friday, January 16, 2026 (23 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Friday puzzles are themeless and hard, with clues that are vague on purpose.
Answer length: 3 squares
First letter
F _ _
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About the answer
FAN as a word: A hand-held device consisting of concertinaed material, or slats of material, gathered together at one end, that may be opened out into the shape of a sector...; An electrical or mechanical device for moving air, used for cooling people, machinery, etc.
FAN has been an answer 4 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since November 20, 2025.
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