This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, September 24, 2026 (23 Across) and the NYT Crossword on Sunday, February 15, 2026 (68 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.
NYT Crossword, September 24, 2026, 23 Across
Answer length: 5 squares
First letter
G _ _ _ _
First and last letters
G _ _ _ P
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About the answer
GRASP as a word: To understand; To grip; to take hold, particularly with the hand.
GRASP has been an answer once in the NYT Crossword and Mini puzzles we have on file, which go back to October 23, 2025.
NYT Crossword, February 15, 2026, 68 Down
Answer length: 6 squares
First letter
C _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
C _ _ _ _ H
Show the answer
About the answer
CLENCH as a word: To grip or hold fast; To close tightly.
CLENCH has been an answer once in the NYT Crossword and Mini puzzles we have on file, which go back to October 23, 2025.
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- Like most manuscript submissions (25 Across)
- Many a Scottish native (26 Across)
- Circuit in which Martina Navratilova holds the most singles titles, in brief (28 Across)
- Dish featured in Broadway's "Sweeney Todd" (33 Across)
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