The New York Times Crossword · 31-Across · 6 letters
Worker who's behind the Times? The New York Times Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed September 9, 2026
Answer · 6 letters
EDITOR
EDITOR is the six-letter verified answer. Behind the times ordinarily means out of date, but the capital T turns Times into a newspaper name. An editor is one of the people behind its production, so the question mark flags a change in reading.
Different crossing letters? Check another fit →A capital letter changes the reading
The familiar expression behind the times describes being out of date. This clue instead capitalizes Times, inviting a newspaper-name reading. Behind then means involved in producing the publication, not slow to follow trends or physically standing behind a sheet of paper.
Why the verified role is editor
An editor works with material before publication, for example by selecting or revising it. A writer creates copy and a reporter gathers news; those are related but distinct roles. Worker alone would be broad, so the source-confirmed six-letter fill and the newspaper pun should be read together.
References behind this explanation
These references support the meaning or background; they are not publisher endorsements.
Where this clue appeared
31-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for September 9, 2026.
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