Cunning skill
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 22, 2026
Stuck on the clue Cunning skill from the New York Times Mini for March 22, 2026? We have the correct 5-letter answer, including the definition, alternative hints, as well as other answers from the same crossword. Ready to learn more about this clue?
Clue
Cunning skill (5)
Answer
The answer to Cunning skill is Craft (5 letters).
Why does Craft fit this clue?
This is a direct definition clue where 'Cunning skill' points to CRAFT, which means skill or dexterity in a particular area, especially when applied with cleverness or artful deception. Craft encompasses both the positive sense of skilled workmanship and the more cunning sense of sly cleverness or guile. The word captures the dual nature suggested by 'cunning skill' - it can refer to legitimate expertise in a trade or art, or to the shrewd, sometimes deceptive application of that skill.
What does Cunning skill mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
cunning
adjective
•having or showing skill in achieving one's ends by deceit or evasion
noun
•skill in achieving one's ends by deceit; craftiness
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 1-down in the New York Times Mini on March 22, 2026, by Joel Fagliano. See all answers for this puzzle.
NYT Mini — Mar 22, 2026
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What does Craft mean?
noun
•Strength; power; might; force .
•Intellectual power; skill; art.
verb
•To make by hand and with much skill.
•To construct, develop something (like a skilled craftsman).
Origin of the word Craft
•origin: Old English 'cræft' meaning strength, skill, or art
•period: Old English (before 1100)
The word is related to German 'Kraft' meaning power or force, showing how the concept of craft originally emphasized the strength and power required for skilled work.
How to use Craft in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Craft.
•“The spy used craft and deception to infiltrate the enemy organization without being detected.”
•“She learned the craft of pottery from her grandmother, spending hours at the wheel perfecting her technique.”
•“The small fishing craft bobbed gently in the harbor as the crew prepared their nets for the morning catch.”
What are other crossword clues for Craft?
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Mini, Mar 22, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Mini for March 22, 2026 was published by Joel Fagliano and has 10 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.
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Frequently asked questions about Cunning skill
- What is the answer to Cunning skill?
- The answer is Craft (5 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Mini on March 22, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Cunning skill have?
- The answer has 5 letters: Craft.
Author
Naitik Mehta
Co-founder
Naitik is a gaming enthusiast who loves solving daily word games and enjoys the friendly competition from time to time. He is the co-founder of Crossword Chef and enjoys thinking about how to make crossword solving more fun for everyone around the world.
Puzzle
NYT Mini — Mar 22, 2026
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