May 17, 2026 Daily / 80A / 4 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
One whose pride can be protective 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 a 4-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: One whose pride can be protective, 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 a 4-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
- The answer slot has 4 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
- This clue appears at 80A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
LION
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
LION is the 4-letter answer for the clue: One whose pride can be protective. The clue works as a direct definition or close paraphrase of the answer. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 80A, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: LION in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- LION has 4 letters, matching the required slot for 80A.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using LION
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all LION clues Position 80A
Answer length 4
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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