“Smear” crossword clue
Answer
M
A
L
I
G
N
••••••MALIGN
Reveal the answer to see why it works and where this clue has appeared before.MALIGN is the answer to the New York Times crossword clue “Smear”. It was last seen in the puzzle of February 20, 2026, where it runs at 24 Across and fills 6 squares. It crosses 6 other entries in that grid — those are listed below and are the quickest way to confirm the letters you already have.
Crossing entries
Feb 20, 2026 grid3D"Is this being broadcast now?"9 ltrs›4DPosh hotel room amenities10 ltrs›5DCholesterol-lowering drug6 ltrs›15DArrogant self-assurance7 ltrs›24DExtra4 ltrs›25DWas a copycat of4 ltrs›
Other answers for this clue
Across all puzzles we index••••••MALIGN6 ltrs
••••DAUB4 ltrs
••••••SMUDGE6 ltrs
••••••BEDAUB6 ltrs
Clues repeat across publications with different fills. If your grid needs a different length, one of these usually fits.
Back to the full Feb 20, 2026 answer list, or browse the puzzle archive.