The New York Times Crossword · 15-Across · 10 letters

Kick off The New York Times Crossword clue

Editorially reviewed September 4, 2026

Complete the phrase

Reveal the fill now—or finish the wording yourself.

10 letters

or use the phrase frame below

Phrase cue

Use a ten-letter verb meaning formally begin or open.

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Answer

INAUGURATE

Why these words complete it

INAUGURATE uses the begin sense of kick off, not a literal kick in a sport. It can describe opening an event or launching an initiative as well as formally installing an officeholder.

Continue this puzzleResult of a tense build-up? →

The phrase frame

The everyday phrasal verb is replaced by a more formal single verb.

What the completed phrase means

To inaugurate is to formally begin, introduce, or open something.

Where this clue appeared

15-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for September 4, 2026.

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