Crossword Clue Reveals 'Gas' as Answer

Seattle Times puzzle features common element clue

Apr. 12, 2026 at 10:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, geometric illustration using soft, muted colors to represent the scientific concepts of helium and neon gases, conveying a sense of lightness, transparency, and precision.A crossword clue about the gaseous elements helium and neon reveals the broader scientific knowledge required to solve modern puzzles.Seattle Today

The crossword puzzle in the Seattle Times on April 12, 2026 included the clue 'Helium or neon', with the 3-letter answer being 'GAS'. This common gaseous element is often used in crossword puzzles, and the article provides helpful hints and background information to assist readers in solving the clue.

Why it matters

Crossword puzzles are a popular pastime, and understanding common clues and answers can help readers improve their puzzle-solving skills. This article provides useful context around a specific clue, shedding light on how crossword constructors often incorporate scientific terminology and concepts into their puzzles.

The details

The 'Helium or neon' crossword clue was part of the Seattle Times New Crossword published on April 12, 2026. The 3-letter answer revealed for this clue was 'GAS', which can refer to either helium or neon - both colorless, odorless gases that are part of the six inert gases. The article provides several helpful hints to guide readers towards the solution, including the definition of 'gas' as a fossil fuel in the gaseous state, as well as anagrams to unscramble the letters.

  • The crossword puzzle was published in the Seattle Times on April 12, 2026.

The players

Seattle Times

A major daily newspaper serving the Seattle, Washington metropolitan area.

Christine Mielke

The author of the article providing the crossword clue answer and background information.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This crossword clue highlights how scientific terminology and concepts are commonly incorporated into puzzles, requiring solvers to have a broad base of knowledge. Understanding the context and definitions around clues like 'helium or neon' can help improve one's crossword puzzle skills.