The questions from today’s “January 16, 2026” on NYT Mini Crossword are a little bit brain teaser. Many people are looking for an answer to it. Here we are sharing answers for clues.
Clue: Liquor, informally
Answer: HOOCH
Explanation:
The term “hooch” is an informal slang for liquor or alcoholic beverages. The origin of the word can be traced back to the Hoochinoo tribe of the Admiralty Island in Alaska. During the late 19th century, the tribe was known for brewing a potent alcoholic concoction, which eventually led to the term “hooch” being used to describe strong, homemade liquor. Over time, “hooch” has become widely recognized as a casual, often playful term for any kind of alcohol, particularly those that are homemade or illicitly produced. The word is often associated with the Prohibition era in the United States, when the production and sale of alcohol were illegal, leading to the creation of secret and often rudimentary distilleries. This historical context adds a layer of intrigue and nostalgia to the term, making it a colorful addition to the lexicon of informal language related to alcohol..
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