This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, April 9, 2026 (53 Across). 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: 4 squares
First letter
R _ _ _
First and last letters
R _ _ S
Show the answer
About the answer
REFS as a word: (British police slang) A scheduled meal break during a shift.
REFS has been an answer 4 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since January 10, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- So darling (46 Across)
- Scare the bejesus out of (48 Across)
- Lead-in to Pen (50 Across)
- Speck in the sea (51 Across)
- Article of summer wear (54 Across)
- On which to watch the Beeb (58 Across)
- Retail giant with a three-syllable name in four letters (60 Across)
- Bring home (61 Across)
Play today's NYT Crossword at The New York Times
All crossword clues · Today's NYT Crossword answers · Today's Mini answers