On June 21, 2025, the New York Times Mini Crossword featured an amusing clue:
“Rook, to a chess newbie” (6 letters).
The answer?
CASTLE — because new players often mistake the rook piece for a castle due to its turret-like shape .
Chess charm: rook vs. castle
Correct name: rook (from Persian rukh, meaning “chariot”)
Common newbie term: castle — influenced by its appearance and the “castling” move .
Why it resonates
It taps into a relatable beginner mistake even casual players slide up to the board and say “castle.”
It adds clever wordplay to the crossword, balancing everyday chess knowledge with a playful twist.