This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, February 12, 2026 (59 Down). 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: 3 squares
First letter
G _ _
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About the answer
GEL as a word: A semi-solid to almost solid colloid of a solid and a liquid, such as jelly, cheese or opal; Any gel intended for a particular cosmetic use, such as for styling the hair.
GEL has been an answer 12 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since November 7, 2025.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
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- Unpleasant discovery under a desk (58 Down)
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