This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, November 5, 2026 (66 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
E _ _
Show the answer
About the answer
ESS as a word: The name of the Latin-script letter S/s; Something shaped like the letter S. (See esses).
ESS has been an answer 8 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since February 11, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- Get together (57 Down)
- Couple (61 Down)
- In the manner of (63 Down)
- What a bill may become (65 Down)
- Large popcorn purchase (67 Down)
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