Tough and lean WSJ Crossword Clue
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explanationFrequently Asked Questions About This Clue
The most common and recent 4-letter answer for "Tough and lean" is WIRY.
The word 'wiry' describes something that is both tough and lean, often used to describe a person's physique that is strong yet slender. The clue directly points to these characteristics without any wordplay.
This clue was last seen in the WSJ Crossword on December 26, 2025.
Wiry means being lean, strong, and tough, resembling wire in strength and slenderness.
Strong and sinewy, Lean and flexible, Like the coats of many terriers
The clue “Tough and lean” is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles like the WSJ crossword. For the puzzle dated December 26 2025, the definitive 4-letter answer is: WIRY.
Expert Tip: When you’re stuck, try to analyze the structure of the clue itself. Is it a direct definition, a pun, a fill-in-the-blank, or a pop culture reference? Identifying the type of clue you’re dealing with is a key skill for improving your solving speed.
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