Trap
Common Trap
An example clue may ask for a category, member, or related term, so crossings matter.
NYT Crossword
Gets bloated, say NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
The wording suggests an example/category relationship, not always a direct synonym.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
Classify this as a example clue and verify that the 12 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- The wording suggests an example or category relationship. Look for a 12-letter answer that can satisfy the example.
- At 12 letters, this is a longer entry; look for phrase structure as well as a direct definition.
- An example clue may ask for a category, member, or related term, so crossings matter.
- This clue appears at 43A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
RETAINSWATER
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
RETAINSWATER is the 12-letter answer for "Gets bloated, say" in the NYT Crossword. The clue frames the answer as an example or category relationship, so compare both the clue wording and the answer length.
- Grid entry: RETAINSWATER in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Example clue.
- This is Across at 43A, so use the Down crossings to confirm RETAINSWATER.
- RETAINSWATER has 12 letters, matching the required slot for 43A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using RETAINSWATER
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all RETAINSWATER clues Position 43A
Answer length 12
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Across at 43A, so use the Down crossings to confirm RETAINSWATER.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a example clue and verify that the 12 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
May 14, 2026 Daily / 43A / 12 letters
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