‘Moxie’ NYT Mini Crossword clue answer and hints

Are you a fan of vintage American Soda called Moxie? If not, today’s NYT Mini Crossword clue, “Moxie,” might throw you into a spin. If you’re struggling, here are today’s hints and answer for the NYT Mini Crossword on Aug. 29 to put you on the right track. 

‘Moxie’ NYT Aug. 29 Mini Crossword hints and answer

• Hint 1: In the 18th century, the answer also referred to a type of tinder or a spark-producing substance used to start fires.
• Hint 2: The five-letter verb describes someone who has a lot of courage, energy, or determination. 
• Hint 3: It starts with the letter “S.”
• Hint 4: The answer is often used interchangeably with words like “guts,” “moxie,” or “pluck,” all of which convey a sense of courageous resolve.

Time to pump up your energy levels. Here comes the answer. 

Did you already see it coming? The answer to three down in the Aug. 29 New York Times Mini Crossword is “SPUNK.” According to Merriam-Webster, a spunk is “to show spirit,” and moxie is a synonym. Earlier, the Moxie drink was advertised as giving strength, courage, and vigor to those who consumed it, and over time, the brand name “Moxie” came to be associated with these qualities. 

‘Moxie’ NYT Mini Crossword difficulty rating

The one-word clues in NYT Mini Crossword are often the most vicious ones. Moxie has a historical background that relates to high spirits and energy, and spunk is one of the words you’d use to describe those feelings. If you’ve drank Moxie before or just used the word in the past, it should be easy for you to guess—but for the rest, you’d need a bit of context to find the answer today. So, for that, I’d give it a four out of five for difficulty.

NYT Mini Crossword (Aug. 29) answers

Across

• 1A Throws, as a fishing line—CASTS
• 6A Omega’s opposite—ALPHA
• 7A Hybrid fruit similar to an “aprium”—PLUOT
• 8A Get the shampoo out—RINSE
• 9A Signed, as a contract—INKED

Down

• 1D Island that lends its name to a style of pants—CAPRI
• 2D Betting every last poker chip—ALL IN
• 3D Moxie—SPUNK
• 4D “It’s just one of ____days”—THOSE
• 5D Happily full—SATED

How to play other word games like the NYT Mini Crossword

Do you cherish spending your time finishing word games like the NYT Mini Crossword? You should also try solving other crosswords at the LA Times and Washington Post. If you want to try something different, then Strands and Spelling Bee are solid options to keep you occupied.