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Remark after not getting a modern reference — NYT Mini Crossword Clue (October 16, 2025)

Pop culture FOMO hits differently inside a crossword. Below you will find the confirmed answer, the reasoning behind it, and crossing clues that turn ambiguity into a cinch. Apostrophes and quotation marks render as ' and " for HTML accuracy.

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Remark after not getting a modern reference

IMOLD

The playful self-own IMOLD matches the clue directly. When someone misses a contemporary reference, they often shrug that they are old. Word Tips provides the same interpretation, confirming the fill.

Why IMOLD Is the Exact Response

Conversation Context

  • The clue frames a direct quote, implying casual speech.
  • IMOLD is a familiar quip online and in dialogue, matching the tone precisely.
  • The letter count hits five, aligning with the down slot.

Cross Checks

  • 1-Across WINE confirms each letter in sequence, eliminating alternate fills.
  • 5-Across SAMOA confirms each letter in sequence, eliminating alternate fills.
  • 6-Across KNOTS confirms each letter in sequence, eliminating alternate fills.
  • 7-Across INLET confirms each letter in sequence, eliminating alternate fills.
  • 8-Across PADS confirms each letter in sequence, eliminating alternate fills.

Speed-Solve Cues

Mind the Tone

Self-deprecating humor frequently surfaces in Minis. When a blank clue references modern trends, IMOLD is a go-to answer.

Scan for Pop Culture Signals

If a clue mentions missing a reference, that reference is likely pop culture. The natural reaction is acknowledging you feel out of touch, leading directly to IMOLD.

Let Crossings Do the Work

With WINE and SAMOA anchoring the top row, the I and M are locked. By the time you reach this clue, only the middle letters need confirmation.

Look for No-Apostrophe Style

Minis often strip apostrophes in entries like IMOLD. Recognize the pattern so you do not waste time searching for punctuation.

Expand Your Modern Slang Toolkit

Related Expressions

  • IMLOST
  • HUH
  • NOIDEA
  • LOSTME

Letter Pattern Insight

IMOLD combines two bursts of letters (IM + OLD). Once you set the opening IM, the closing OLD is a common crossword fragment that drops in effortlessly.