Romantic partner, casually
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 29, 2026
Stuck on the clue Romantic partner, casually from the New York Times Midi for March 29, 2026? We have the correct 3-letter answer, including the definition, alternative hints, as well as other answers from the same crossword. Ready to learn more about this clue?
Clue
Romantic partner, casually (3)
Answer
The answer to Romantic partner, casually is Bae (3 letters).
Some cells in this answer were drawn with a circle in the original puzzle — these often flag a hidden theme.
Why does Bae fit this clue?
This entry has circled cells at positions 0 and 1, highlighting the letters 'B' and 'A' within the answer. The circled letters likely mark a thematic element or pattern that runs through multiple entries in this puzzle. The clue 'Romantic partner, casually' uses slang terminology to point to BAE, a modern informal term for one's boyfriend, girlfriend, or significant other. BAE originated as an acronym for 'before anyone else' but evolved into a standalone word meaning beloved or romantic partner. The qualifier 'casually' signals that this is informal language rather than a formal term like 'spouse' or 'partner,' making BAE the perfect fit for this relaxed, contemporary clue.
What does Romantic partner, casually mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
romantic
adjective
•relating to or characterized by romance or love
partner
noun
•a person in a romantic or intimate relationship
casually
adverb
•in an informal or relaxed manner
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 5-down in the New York Times Midi on March 29, 2026, by Tom McCoy, edited by Ian Livengood. See all answers for this puzzle.
NYT Midi — Mar 29, 2026
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What does Bae mean?
noun
•Darling (term of endearment).
•Asian pear.
verb
•To make the sound of a wild animal, to bay.
Origin of the word Bae
•origin: African American Vernacular English, acronym for 'before anyone else' or shortened form of 'babe'
•period: early 2000s
The word gained widespread popularity through social media and hip-hop culture, particularly after appearing in Pharrell Williams' 2013 song 'Come Get It Bae.'
How to use Bae in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Bae.
•“I'm going to the movies with my bae tonight.”
•“She posted a cute photo with her bae on Instagram.”
•“Can't wait to see bae after this long work trip.”
What are other crossword clues for Bae?
and 1 more clues with the same answer
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Midi, Mar 29, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Midi for March 29, 2026 titled “Squaring Off” was published by Tom McCoy and has 35 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.
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Frequently asked questions about Romantic partner, casually
- What is the answer to Romantic partner, casually?
- The answer is Bae (3 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Midi on March 29, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Romantic partner, casually have?
- The answer has 3 letters: Bae.
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 Midi — Mar 29, 2026
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