The New York Times Crossword · 18-Across · 5 letters

Step in the shower? The New York Times Crossword clue

Editorially reviewed August 28, 2026

Decode the turn

Reveal the answer now—or spot the trick first.

5 letters

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What to notice

Think of the five-letter stage after applying soap or shampoo.

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Answer

RINSE

How the trick resolves

RINSE fits because it is a procedural step during a shower, while the question mark signals that "step" is not a footstep.

Continue this puzzle"Oh, what the hell" →

The turn in the clue

The question mark redirects "step" from walking to a stage in a process.

The answer in plain English

To rinse is to wash away soap or residue with clean water.

Where this clue appeared

18-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for August 28, 2026.

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