This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Monday, January 26, 2026 (49 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Monday puzzles are the easiest of the week, so the clue is likely a plain definition.
Answer length: 6 squares
First letter
C _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
C _ _ _ _ S
Show the answer
About the answer
CARESS as a word: (transitive) To touch or kiss lovingly; to fondle; An act of endearment; any act or expression of affection; an embracing, or touching, with tenderness.
CARESS has been an answer 3 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since January 26, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- Censored, as on an audiotape (45 Down)
- Takes exception (46 Down)
- Fifth or Madison, in Manhattan (47 Down)
- Point of a polygon (48 Down)
- "It'll ___ ya" (55 Down)
- Thus (57 Down)
- Nevada city near Lake Tahoe (58 Down)
- Extra attention, in brief (60 Down)
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