May 21, 2026 Daily / 26D / 11 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
Lasting damage from a tough experience, metaphorically NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test an 11-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: Lasting damage from a tough experience, metaphorically, first identify whether the wording is direct, referential, abbreviated, or playful. This one is best treated as a direct clue.
- Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test an 11-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
- At 11 letters, this is a longer entry; look for phrase structure as well as a direct definition.
- This clue appears at 26D in the NYT Crossword, so check the Across crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
BATTLESCARS
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
BATTLESCARS is the 11-letter answer for the clue: Lasting damage from a tough experience, metaphorically. The clue works as a direct definition or close paraphrase of the answer. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 26D, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: BATTLESCARS in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- BATTLESCARS has 11 letters, matching the required slot for 26D.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using BATTLESCARS
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all BATTLESCARS clues Position 26D
Answer length 11
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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