Decoding the Clue: “Money Hoarder” in the NYT Mini Crossword
For crossword enthusiasts, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of solving a puzzle. The New York Times Mini Crossword, a compact version of the classic daily crossword, offers a quick yet satisfying mental challenge. However, even these smaller puzzles can present some tough clues that might leave you momentarily stumped. One such clue that has recently caught the attention of solvers is “Money Hoarder.” If you’ve been struggling to crack this one, you’re not alone.
What Makes the Clue Tricky?
The phrase “Money Hoarder” evokes the image of someone who obsessively accumulates wealth, often to an extreme degree. It’s not just about saving money but doing so in a way that may be viewed as miserly or excessively frugal.
The challenge with this clue lies in distilling that entire concept into a single word that fits within the confines of the crossword grid.
The Answer: A Classic Term
If you’ve been pondering this clue and haven’t found the right word, here’s the solution: MISER.
A miser is someone who hoards wealth and spends as little money as possible. This term perfectly encapsulates the idea of a “money hoarder,” making it a fitting answer for the NYT Mini Crossword.
Historical Use of the Term
The term “miser” has long been used in literature and everyday language to describe individuals who are notoriously tight-fisted with their money. It’s a classic word that often brings to mind characters like Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, who is the epitome of a miserly figure. In crossword puzzles, “miser” is a frequently used answer because it succinctly describes this concept in just five letters, making it a crossword constructor’s go-to word for clues related to money hoarding.
Why This Clue Works
The brilliance of this clue lies in its simplicity and accuracy. The word “miser” may not be the first term that comes to mind when thinking about a money hoarder, but once you land on it, everything clicks into place. The clue doesn’t try to mislead you; it simply challenges you to think about the concept of money hoarding in its most basic and classic form.
Final Thoughts
Solving crossword puzzles, whether they’re full-length or mini versions, is a great way to keep your mind sharp and enjoy a bit of daily brain exercise. Clues like “Money Hoarder” in the NYT Mini Crossword remind us that even the simplest puzzles can offer moments of challenge and satisfaction. So, the next time you come across a tough clue, remember that the answer is often right there—just waiting for you to piece it together.
