The New York Times Crossword · 1-Across · 4 letters
Buds The New York Times Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed September 17, 2026
Answer · 4 letters
MACS
MACS takes Buds in the informal people-and-address sense, not as unopened flowers. Bud and Mac can both be ways to address someone. The four-letter plural is the verified NYT entry for this clue.
Different crossing letters? Check another fit →Bud can be an address, not a friendship claim
Someone can say bud to a person they do not know well. Mac likewise has a dictionary sense as an informal way to address a man whose name is unknown. That is the link used by this clue; it does not require the people being addressed to be close friends.
Follow the clue's sense, not the capital letters
MACS is printed in capitals because it is a grid answer, not because the clue must mean computers or a technical acronym. The plural wording Buds supplies the final S. Flower buds are another everyday meaning of the clue, but they do not explain this recorded four-letter answer.
References behind this explanation
These references support the meaning or background; they are not publisher endorsements.
Where this clue appeared
1-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for September 17, 2026.
Browse selected The New York Times Crossword clues →Related reviewed clues
Solve the next clue here.
Paste another clue, add the letters you trust, and keep solving without returning to search.
This independently written explanation is for learning and clue analysis. Crossword Clue Tutor is not affiliated with or endorsed by The New York Times Crossword or its publisher.