This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Sunday, May 3, 2026 (49 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Sunday puzzles are large (21 by 21) and themed, about as hard as a Wednesday or Thursday.
How to read this clue
"Abbr." or "for short" means the answer is itself an abbreviation or a shortened form.
Answer length: 3 squares
First letter
R _ _
Show the answer
About the answer
RET as a word: (transitive) To prepare (flax, hemp etc.) for further processing by soaking, which facilitates separation of fibers from the woody parts of the stem; Abbreviation of retired. [Secluded from society (of a lifestyle, activity etc.); private, quiet.].
RET has been an answer once in the NYT Crossword and Mini puzzles we have on file, which go back to October 23, 2025.
More clues from this puzzle
- Sounding like taffeta, say (40 Down)
- More than suspects (41 Down)
- When tripled, "You get the picture" (42 Down)
- Sicilian spewer (47 Down)
- Loaded (with) (51 Down)
- When teething might end (52 Down)
- Produce aisle device (53 Down)
- Swear (54 Down)
Play today's NYT Crossword at The New York Times
All crossword clues · Today's NYT Crossword answers · Today's Mini answers