NYT Mini · 5-Across · 5 letters

It’s in a pickle NYT Mini crossword clue

Editorially reviewed August 19, 2026

Answer

BRINE

Why BRINE fits

A cucumber becomes a pickle while soaking in BRINE, so the salty liquid is literally in and around a pickle. The wording also nods to the idiom “in a pickle,” meaning in trouble.

Clue signal

The clue invites the familiar trouble idiom, but “in” is meant physically.

BRINE meaning

A strong solution of salt and water used for pickling and preserving food.

Where this clue appeared

5-Across in NYT Mini puzzle for August 19, 2026.

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