It’s not often I’m completely perplexed by a NYT crossword clue, but today’s “esoteric” clue was about as challenging as word games get. This clue’s from the Aug. 16 NYT Mini Crossword puzzle, and if you don’t know what esoteric means and you’re as stumped as I was, use the hints (and answer) below to help.
It’s one word. Screenshot by Dot Esports via the NYT.
- Hint 1: It starts with an “A.”
- Hint 2: It contains three vowels.
- Hint 3: It rhymes with mundane.
- Hint 4: It’s also the name of a hit League of Legends Netflix series.
The answer to the “Esoteric” clue is “ARCANE.” Esoteric is an older word used to describe knowledge restricted to a small group or is support to be understood or designed for the specially initiated. Arcane, which is a synonym of esoteric, means something that’s known only by a few people and is often shrouded in mystery. At least after today we have two more interesting words to add to our vocabulary.
