Skyward gust of air — NYT Mini Crossword Clue (October 18, 2025)
Word Tips defines the entry as an upward current. That spells UPDRAFT. Our breakdown ties it to everyday experiences like riding a hot air balloon or watching hawks circle to make the vocabulary stick. Apostrophes appear as ' and quotation marks as " to keep markup valid.
4 Down
Skyward gust of air
Think of the thermal columns gliders use to gain altitude. That is an updraft. Word Tips also notes synonyms like steady flow and stream, confirming the meteorology vibe. The seven letters bring movement to the grid and intersect several critical across entries.
Crossing Safety Net
- 8-Across PRE keeps the consonant cluster drift anchored so the big Down entry stays secure.
- 9-Across MOI keeps the consonant cluster drift anchored so the big Down entry stays secure.
- 10-Across DAN keeps the consonant cluster drift anchored so the big Down entry stays secure.
- 15-Across SEATS keeps the consonant cluster drift anchored so the big Down entry stays secure.
Solver Cheat Sheet
Meaning Hint
Word Tips describes an upward current, which is the textbook definition of an updraft.
Alternate Cue
Expect clues like "Thermal for a hang glider" or "Wind that lifts kites." Both lead to UPDRAFT.
Letter Pattern
The DR pairing in the middle is rare. Seeing that cluster should immediately suggest updraft over options like upflow.
Solve Smart
Plant UPDRAFT quickly when you encounter vertical wind imagery. Then let the crosses confirm each letter.