This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Wednesday, March 18, 2026 (26 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Wednesday sits mid-week in difficulty, with more wordplay than Monday or Tuesday.
How to read this clue
The asterisk marks a theme answer. It ties in to the puzzle's theme, which a "revealer" clue elsewhere in the grid usually explains.
Answer length: 8 squares
First letter
B _ _ _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
B _ _ _ _ _ _ Y
Show the answer
About the answer
BENIGNLY as a word: In a benign manner.
BENIGNLY 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
- Big name in cosmetics (19 Across)
- Make like a hot dog (20 Across)
- "X-Men" villain who can manipulate metals (21 Across)
- Summer camp craft (23 Across)
- Numbers on botellas de vino (28 Across)
- Asks oneself "What if?" (30 Across)
- Silk Road locale, largely (31 Across)
Play today's NYT Crossword at The New York Times
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