This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Tuesday, September 22, 2026 (55 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Tuesday puzzles are a step up from Monday but still mostly straightforward.
How to read this clue
This is a fill-in-the-blank clue: the answer completes the phrase, title or quotation.
Answer length: 4 squares
First letter
F _ _ _
First and last letters
F _ _ S
Show the answer
About the answer
FESS as a word: To confess; to admit; (heraldry) A horizontal band across the middle of the shield.
FESS has been an answer 4 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since February 11, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- Formally yielded (49 Down)
- Pig's cry (51 Down)
- Ivy League school in New Haven (53 Down)
- Sign of things to come (54 Down)
- "... or thereabouts" (58 Down)
- Nail polish brand (59 Down)
- It has M.S.G. in it (60 Down)
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