This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, April 30, 2026 (11 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Thursday puzzles often have a trick, such as a rebus (several letters in one square) or answers that bend the rules.
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: 4 squares
First letter
P _ _ _
First and last letters
P _ _ E
Show the answer
About the answer
PATE as a word: The interior body, or non-rind portion of cheese, described by its texture, density, and color; (somewhat archaic) The head, particularly the top or crown.
PATE has been an answer 2 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since February 5, 2026.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- Qatari title (7 Down)
- "And ___, here we are" (8 Down)
- Rub with oil (9 Down)
- Graphic novels? (10 Down)
- Super Mario World console, in brief (12 Down)
- Gen Z slang for awesome style (13 Down)
- Largest of the dolphin family (15 Down)
- ___ good turn (19 Down)
Play today's NYT Crossword at The New York Times
All crossword clues · Today's NYT Crossword answers · Today's Mini answers