This clue appeared in the Mini Crossword on Monday, September 21, 2026 (7 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it.
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: 5 squares
First letter
S _ _ _ _
First and last letters
S _ _ _ L
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About the answer
SHELL as a word: A hard external covering of an animal; The calcareous or chitinous external covering of mollusks, crustaceans, and some other invertebrates.
SHELL has been an answer 7 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since November 9, 2025.
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