NYT Dictionary
ESSAY
/ɛˈseɪ/NounVerbes-SAYes-say · 2 syllablesGrade 4
Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2026
Meaning
A written composition of moderate length, exploring a particular issue or subject.
Etymology
Origin: Latin
Since late 16th century, borrowed from Middle French essay, essai (“essay”), meaning coined by Montaigne at the same time, from the same words with the earlier meanings 'experiment; assay; attempt', from Old French essay, essai, assay, assai, from Latin exagium (“weight; weighing, testing on the balance”), from exigere + -ium.
Synonyms & Antonyms
NYT Puzzle Appearances
Accepted in 1 recorded puzzle: