This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 (18 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Wednesday sits mid-week in difficulty, with more wordplay than Monday or Tuesday.
How to read this clue
The question mark warns of wordplay. Expect a pun or a second meaning rather than a straight definition.
Answer length: 5 squares
First letter
E _ _ _ _
First and last letters
E _ _ _ S
Show the answer
About the answer
EARLS as a word: (nobility) A British or Irish nobleman next in rank above a viscount and below a marquess; equivalent to a European count. A female using the style is termed...; (entomology) Any of various nymphalid butterflies of the genus Tanaecia. Other butterflies in this genus are called counts and viscounts.
EARLS has been an answer 2 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since July 12, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
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- Solo for a soprano (22 Across)
- Wrecks beyond repair (23 Across)
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