What might pop up from time to time?

Why does Toaster fit this clue?

This clue uses wordplay, hiding a double meaning inside a casual question. A toaster is a small kitchen appliance that heats slices of bread by passing them between electric heating elements. The phrase 'from time to time' sounds like it means 'occasionally,' but the real trick is 'pop up,' which is exactly what toast does when a toaster finishes its cycle, the bread springs up out of the slots. So the clue is really asking: what device literally makes things pop up, repeatedly, over time? The answer is a toaster.

Where did this clue appear?

This clue appeared as 35-across in the New York Times Daily on January 11, 2026, by Dylan Schiff, edited by Will Shortz. See all answers for this puzzle.

Read the NYT Wordplay column for this puzzle.

All clues from the New York Times Daily, Jan 11, 2026 crossword

The New York Times Daily for January 11, 2026 titled “It's All Greek” was published by Dylan Schiff and has 140 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.

Frequently asked questions about What might pop up from time to time?

What is the answer to What might pop up from time to time??

The answer is Toaster (7 letters).

Where did this clue appear?

This clue was last seen in the New York Times Daily on January 11, 2026.

How many letters does the answer to What might pop up from time to time? have?

The answer has 7 letters: Toaster.

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.