This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Friday, February 20, 2026 (41 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Friday puzzles are themeless and hard, with clues that are vague on purpose.
Answer length: 6 squares
First letter
H _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
H _ _ _ _ E
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About the answer
HANDLE as a word: The part of an object which is (designed to be) held in the hand when used or moved; An instrument for effecting a purpose (either literally or figuratively); a tool, or an opportunity or pretext.
HANDLE 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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