NYT Mini October 12, 2025: 8A - Bunkers on a golf course

Answer: TRAPS

5 letters

Golf Terminology

Sand bunkers are often called sand traps, especially in American golf vernacular. Minis favor this shortened form—TRAPS—because it fits neatly into five-letter slots while capturing the sport-specific slang. Recognizing alternate names for hazards prevents unnecessary pauses when the obvious answer exceeds the enumeration.

Crossing Checkpoints

Shares the leading T with LOTUS, reinforcing the botanical overlap upstairs.
Letter R intersects COLOR, while P links to AMP UP, ensuring quick confirmation.
Final S aligns with DRESS, locking down the plural form demanded by the clue.

Solving Tip

When clues pluralize a noun, double-check that your answer does the same even if the base term is typically singular. Golf grids frequently include roughs, tees, and traps—memorize each pluralization to move swiftly through sports-heavy puzzles.

Skill Builder

Track related entries like PAR, BOGEY, and EAGLE, which appear as often as TRAP. Developing a mini golf lexicon pays dividends across daily crosswords and themed Sunday sections.

← Back to October 12, 2025 Puzzle

NYT Mini October 12, 2025: 8A - Bunkers on a golf course

Answer: TRAPS

Golf Terminology

Crossing Checkpoints

Solving Tip

Skill Builder

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