This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, May 28, 2026 (52 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.
Answer length: 4 squares
First letter
R _ _ _
First and last letters
R _ _ E
Show the answer
About the answer
ROTE as a word: Mechanical routine; a fixed, habitual, repetitive, or mechanical course of procedure; By repetition or practice and without much thought.
ROTE has been an answer 5 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since November 9, 2025.
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