The New York Times Crossword · 7-Across · 3 letters
Mattress or memo follower The New York Times Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed September 2, 2026
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Meaning cue
Find the three-letter noun that completes both compounds.
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Answer
Why it fits
PAD can follow either clue word: a mattress pad adds cushioning, and a memo pad holds notes. The shared three-letter follower is the answer.
Continue this puzzle"Melts in your mouth" candies … or a hint to this puzzle's theme →What narrows the clue
The word “follower” asks for one term that forms valid phrases after both given nouns.
Answer meaning
Pad forms compounds such as mattress pad and memo pad.
Where this clue appeared
7-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for September 2, 2026.
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