NYT Crossword

Swells up NYT Crossword Clue

20A | 6 letters

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BLOATS

Explanation

Why This Answer Fits

BLOATS is the 6-letter answer for "Swells up" in the NYT Crossword. The wording acts as a direct definition or close paraphrase, and the crossing entries at 20A help confirm the exact spelling.

Grid entry: BLOATS in the grid.
Answer pattern: _ _ _ _ _ _.
Clue type: Direct clue.
This is Across at 20A, so use the Down crossings to confirm BLOATS.
BLOATS has 6 letters, matching the required slot for 20A.

Answer history

Other NYT Crossword Clues Using BLOATS

We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.

View all BLOATS clues

Hint

Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test a 6-letter synonym or phrase.

How to solve it

Read the clue type first

Classify this as a direct clue and verify that the 6 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.

Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test a 6-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
The answer slot has 6 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
This clue appears at 20A in the NYT Crossword, so check the Down crossings for confirmation.

Position 20A

Answer length 6

Puzzle type Daily

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Solver context

Extra Notes for This Clue

Crossings

Crossing Notes

This is Across at 20A, so use the Down crossings to confirm BLOATS.

Editor note

Editorial Note

Classify this as a direct clue and verify that the 6 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.

Clue History

May 11, 2026 Daily / 20A / 6 letters

Puzzle clues

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