Tattoos, informally
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 4, 2026
Stuck on the clue Tattoos, informally from the New York Times Mini for March 4, 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
Tattoos, informally (3)
Answer
The answer to Tattoos, informally is Ink (3 letters).
Why does Ink fit this clue?
The clue uses an informal register to point to INK, the three-letter answer. Ink is the pigmented liquid injected under the skin to create a tattoo. In casual, everyday speech, tattoos are commonly called "ink," as in "he's got a lot of ink" or "she just got some new ink." The qualifier "informally" signals that the clue is using slang rather than the clinical term "tattoo," and INK fits that register perfectly as a widely recognized shorthand in tattoo culture.
What does Tattoos, informally mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
tattoos
noun
•permanent designs or markings made on skin with ink
informally
adverb
•in a casual or colloquial manner; using slang or everyday language
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 4-down in the New York Times Mini on March 4, 2026, by Ian Livengood, edited by Joel Fagliano. See all answers for this puzzle.
NYT Mini — Mar 4, 2026
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What does Ink mean?
noun
•A pigment (or dye)-based fluid used for writing, printing etc.
•A particular type, color or container of this fluid.
verb
•To apply ink to; to cover or smear with ink.
•To sign (a contract or similar document).
Origin of the word Ink
•origin: Greek 'enkauston' meaning 'burnt in'
•period: 13th century
The word originally referred to a purple ink used by Roman emperors for signing documents, made from a special dye that was literally burned into the writing material.
How to use Ink in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Ink.
•“She's thinking about getting some new ink on her shoulder next month.”
•“The pen ran out of ink right in the middle of the important document.”
•“The newspaper editor decided not to ink the controversial story until they could verify more facts.”
What are other crossword clues for Ink?
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Mini, Mar 4, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Mini for March 4, 2026 was published by Ian Livengood 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 Tattoos, informally
- What is the answer to Tattoos, informally?
- The answer is Ink (3 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Mini on March 4, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Tattoos, informally have?
- The answer has 3 letters: Ink.
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 4, 2026
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