Protective layers over skin wounds

Published by Naitik Mehta · March 7, 2026

Stuck on the clue Protective layers over skin wounds from the New York Times Mini for March 7, 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

Protective layers over skin wounds (5)

Answer

The answer to Protective layers over skin wounds is Scabs (5 letters).

Why does Scabs fit this clue?

This is a straightforward direct-definition clue where 'Protective layers over skin wounds' points to SCABS. Scabs are the dry, crusty coverings that form over cuts, scrapes, or sores as part of the body's natural healing process. When skin is broken, blood platelets and fibrin proteins clump together to form a clot, which then dries and hardens into a scab that shields the tender new tissue underneath from bacteria and further damage. Picking a scab before healing is complete can slow recovery and leave a scar.

What does Protective layers over skin wounds mean?

We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.

protective

adjective

•serving to defend or guard against harm or injury

layers

noun

•sheets or thicknesses of material laid over a surface

wounds

noun

•injuries to living tissue caused by a cut or blow

Where did this clue appear?

This clue appeared as 9-across in the New York Times Mini on March 7, 2026, by Joel Fagliano. See all answers for this puzzle.

NYT Mini — Mar 7, 2026

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What does Scabs mean?

noun

•hard crusts that form over wounds as blood and other fluids dry and coagulate during the healing process

How to use Scabs in a sentence

Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Scabs.

•“The doctor explained that scabs form naturally as protective layers over skin wounds to prevent infection while the tissue heals underneath.”

•“She picked at the scabs on her knees from when she fell off her bicycle last week.”

•“After the cat scratched him, small scabs appeared on his arm within a few days.”

What are other crossword clues for Scabs?

“Ones crossing picket lines” (5)

“Strike-breaking workers” (5)

Learn about related clues

All clues from the New York Times Mini, Mar 7, 2026 crossword

The New York Times Mini for March 7, 2026 was published by Joel Fagliano and has 14 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.

Across

1ABird with keen eyesight (4)5AWith 8-Across, helpful comment to an oblivious video call participant (5)6AScooby-Doo or Air Bud (6)7ASticky notes (7)8ASee 5-Across (6)9AProtective layers over skin wounds (5)10ARoosters' mates (4)

Down

1DPlaces to find some small jets (7)2DReviews, as taxes (6)3DTexted or emailed, e.g. (5)4DBarrels of beer (4)5DOveragreeable underling (6)6DSpanish conquistador ___ de León (5)7DSwanky, like a certain Spice Girl (4)

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Frequently asked questions about Protective layers over skin wounds

What is the answer to Protective layers over skin wounds?: The answer is Scabs (5 letters).
Where did this clue appear?: This clue was last seen in the New York Times Mini on March 7, 2026.
How many letters does the answer to Protective layers over skin wounds have?: The answer has 5 letters: Scabs.

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.