Water nymph of Greek myth
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 31, 2026
Stuck on the clue Water nymph of Greek myth from the New York Times Daily for March 31, 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
Water nymph of Greek myth (5)
Answer
The answer to Water nymph of Greek myth is Naiad (5 letters).
Why does Naiad fit this clue?
This is a direct definition clue where 'Water nymph of Greek myth' points straight to NAIAD. A naiad is a type of water nymph in Greek mythology, specifically associated with freshwater bodies like springs, rivers, lakes, and fountains. These mythological beings were considered minor deities who presided over and protected their particular water sources. Naiads were typically depicted as beautiful young women who could take human form or merge with their waters, and they played important roles in many Greek myths and legends.
What does Water nymph of Greek myth mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
nymph
noun
•a mythological spirit of nature imagined as a beautiful maiden inhabiting rivers, woods, or other locations
•in Greek mythology, a minor female nature deity typically associated with a particular location or landform
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 22-down in the New York Times Daily on March 31, 2026, by Ryan Patrick Smith, edited by Will Shortz. See all answers for this puzzle.
Read the NYT Wordplay column for this puzzle.
NYT Daily — Mar 31, 2026
Get help on the whole puzzle
What does Naiad mean?
noun
•A female deity (nymph) associated with water, especially a spring, stream, or other fresh water.
•The aquatic larva (nymph) of a dragonfly or damselfly.
Origin of the word Naiad
•origin: Greek 'naias' (νηιάς), meaning 'water nymph' or 'she who flows'
•period: Ancient Greek, adopted into Latin and English by the 16th century
The word derives from the Greek verb 'naiein' meaning 'to flow,' reflecting the ancient belief that these water spirits embodied the life force of freshwater sources like springs, rivers, and lakes.
How to use Naiad in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Naiad.
•“According to Greek mythology, each naiad was bound to her particular spring, river, or lake and would perish if her water source dried up.”
•“The poet described the forest stream as home to a gentle naiad who sang lullabies to passing travelers.”
•“In classical literature, the naiad emerged from the crystal pool to warn the hero of impending danger.”
What are other crossword clues for Naiad?
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Daily, Mar 31, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Daily for March 31, 2026 was published by Ryan Patrick Smith and has 78 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.
Across
Down
Recently added clues
Frequently asked questions about Water nymph of Greek myth
- What is the answer to Water nymph of Greek myth?
- The answer is Naiad (5 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Daily on March 31, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Water nymph of Greek myth have?
- The answer has 5 letters: Naiad.
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 Daily — Mar 31, 2026
Get help on the whole puzzle