NYT Dictionary

TAILGATE

/ˈteɪlˌɡeɪt/

NounVerbTAIL-gatetail-gate · 2 syllablesGrade 6

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2023, 2025

Meaning

A hinged board or hatch at the rear of a vehicle that can be lowered for loading and unloading.

Etymology

Origin: Unknown

From tail + gate. Compare liftgate.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

tailboardhatchpiggybackdraftchaseclaspdogfollow heel hound

Antonyms

headgate

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 2 recorded puzzles:

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