Word before "piercing" or "splitting" Crossword Clue

We have the 3-letter answer for Word before "piercing" or "splitting" crossword clue, last seen in the USA Today Crossword May 1, 2026 puzzle. Let us help you solve the crossword clue that has you stumped so you can finish the puzzle.

Word before "piercing" or "splitting" Crossword Answer

↓11.

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Helpful Hints

(noun)
1. the externally visible cartilaginous structure of the external ear
2. fruiting spike of a cereal plant especially corn

Hint 2: Clue Definitions

PIERCING (adjective)
1. painful as if caused by a sharp instrument
2. having or demonstrating ability to recognize or draw fine distinctions
SPLITTING (adjective)
1. resembling a sound of violent tearing as of something ripped apart or lightning splitting a tree

Hint 3: Anagram

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More USA Today Crossword (5/1/2026) Answers

Across

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29. Bells and whistles

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39. Airport annoyance

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44. Gooey lunchbox staple

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49. Long overnight flight

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58. One of many on a leopard

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All Answers

Down

1. Cuban dances

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3. Chopped finely, like garlic

4. Spanish 101 farewell

5. "Time to face reality!"

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22. State of matter

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30. " . . . and you know the rest"

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33. Musical ensemble with tubas and trombones

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55. Four-stringed instrument, for short

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All Answers