Crossword Clue Reveals 'Teddy' as Crib Items Named for a President

The Washington Post Daily Mini Meta Crossword featured this presidential-themed puzzle on April 17, 2026.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:20am

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An extremely abstracted, out-of-focus photograph of a soft, plush teddy bear resting in a crib, surrounded by blurred shapes and pools of warm, golden light, conceptually representing the enduring legacy of a presidential-themed children's toy.A cherished childhood toy named after a former U.S. president continues to bring comfort and joy to generations of young Americans.Washington Today

A recent crossword puzzle in the Washington Post Daily Mini Meta Crossword on April 17, 2026 included the clue "With 1-Down, crib items named for a president". The 5-letter answer to this clue was revealed to be "TEDDY", referring to the popular stuffed animal toy known as a "teddy bear" that was named after former U.S. President Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt.

Why it matters

Crossword puzzles often feature clever and obscure clues that reference historical figures, cultural touchstones, and everyday objects. This particular clue highlights how certain consumer products and children's toys can become iconic representations of past U.S. presidents, reflecting their lasting impact on American culture and society.

The details

The crossword clue "With 1-Down, crib items named for a president" was part of a larger puzzle published in the Washington Post Daily Mini Meta Crossword on April 17, 2026. The 5-letter answer to this specific clue was revealed to be "TEDDY", referring to the popular stuffed animal toy known as a "teddy bear" that was named after former U.S. President Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt.

  • The crossword puzzle was published on April 17, 2026 in the Washington Post Daily Mini Meta Crossword.

The players

Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt

The 26th President of the United States, whose nickname "Teddy" inspired the creation of the popular stuffed animal toy known as the "teddy bear".

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The takeaway

Crossword puzzles can be a fun way to explore the connections between historical figures, consumer products, and cultural touchstones. This particular clue highlights how the legacy of a U.S. president can live on through an iconic children's toy that bears his nickname.