Quick Answer
Clue: “Something used to steer a rowboat”
Answer: OAR
Answer length: 3 letters
Clue number & direction: 9-Across
In the grid, it appears as OAR, filling a straight three-letter Across slot at 9A.
Why OAR Is the Right NYT Answer
- An oar is literally the tool used both to propel and to steer a small boat like a rowboat, matching the clue word-for-word. NYT and other crosswords often lean on basic boating vocabulary, so “something used to steer a rowboat” strongly points to OAR over more technical terms.
- The 3-letter length eliminates longer options like “rudder,” and common crossing patterns (for example, A or OA_) quickly confirm OAR as the only clean fit.
What OAR Means in Plain English
- An oar is a long pole with a flat blade at one end that you place in the water to move and steer a boat. Rowers hold the handle and pull against the water to make the boat go forward, turn, or stop.
- In everyday language, “oar” can also be used in phrases like “stick your oar in,” meaning to interfere or get involved in something.
Solving Tips for Similar NYT Clues
- Watch for clue wording like “rowboat steering stick,” “boat propeller (not a motor),” or “paddle, basically” all are classic ways to clue OAR.
- A 3-letter boating-related clue with “row,” “boat,” or “steer” is very frequently OAR, especially in the Mini.
- Crossings such as A with friendly letters from down clues (for instance ARFS or IGLOO nearby in this Mini) make OAR easy to lock in.
Because OAR is extremely common “crosswordese,” it is worth locking into your mental toolbox for quick fills in both the daily and Mini NYT puzzles.
