Choose a clue
Start with any Across or Down clue that feels clear.
Try the idea
Solve one clue, then use every crossing
CrossHive pairs a compact 5x5 grid with short Across and Down clues. Tap a clue or square, type one letter at a time, and let confirmed letters narrow the answers around them.
In this real example, 1 Across is ALARM. Filling it places starting letters into all three Down answers at once.
1AL2AR3M
BBA
4IVORY
DUO
5ENTER
1 Across · active clueA sound or signal that warns you
AcrossDown
1A sound or signal that warns you
4A creamy white color
5To go in
A complete crossword in five moments
How CrossHive plays
Type the answer
The active path stays highlighted as each letter enters the grid.
Use crossings
Shared letters confirm answers and unlock harder clues.
Ask for help
Check the grid or reveal a letter or word when you need support.
Review the words
Complete the grid to see definitions and examples for the vocabulary.
The crossword advantage
Every solved word helps solve another
Crossword answers share letters. If an Across clue gives you ALARM, the A, A, and M become immediate evidence for the Down clues that begin in that row.
That makes CrossHive more than a list of definitions: the grid lets spelling and meaning work together. When one clue stalls, switch direction and solve around it.
ALARM
Three starting letters now help the Down clues
Support without a timer
Choose the smallest hint that keeps you moving
CrossHive never rushes you. Its help tools trade a few score points for the amount of support you choose.
Check puzzle
Learn how many filled letters need another look without exposing the answers.
Reveal letter
Fill only the selected square when one crossing letter would unlock your thinking.
Reveal word
Complete the active answer when you would rather learn and continue than stay stuck.
Learning after the solve
The final square opens a vocabulary review
CrossHive turns each completed answer into something worth remembering with a short definition, a usage example when available, and links to deeper WordHive word pages.
Alarm
A warning signal or a device that alerts people.
“The alarm reminded the class that recess was over.”Ivory
A word that can describe a pale, creamy white color.
Connect the clue, spelling, and meaning after the solve.Enter
To go into a place or begin taking part.
“Please enter the room quietly.”Solve with less guessing
Four useful mini crossword strategies
Start with the clearest clue
One confident answer can place letters into several crossing words.
Switch direction when stuck
Move from Across to Down instead of forcing an uncertain answer.
Match the answer length
The number of open squares quickly rules out plausible but incorrectly sized words.
Use checks before reveals
A check preserves more discovery and costs fewer points than exposing a letter or word.
Quick answers
CrossHive Mini Crossword FAQ
What is CrossHive?
CrossHive is WordHive's free mini crossword online, built around a compact 5x5 grid, short clues, optional help, and vocabulary review.
How do you play CrossHive?
Choose an Across or Down clue, type its answer into the highlighted squares, and use shared crossing letters to complete the grid.
Is CrossHive free?
Yes. CrossHive is free to play in your browser without creating an account.
Is the mini crossword timed?
No. CrossHive does not use a timer, so you can solve at your own pace.
Can I get help if I am stuck?
Yes. You can check the puzzle, reveal one selected letter, or reveal the active word. Each option reduces the puzzle score by a different amount.
Does CrossHive teach vocabulary?
Yes. After completing the grid, you can review definitions and examples for the words you solved.
Can I play more than one puzzle?
Yes. After completing a board, CrossHive can continue to the next available mini crossword.
Your first clue is waiting
Ready for a calm, compact word break?
Open the 5x5 grid, solve what you know, and let the crossing letters do the rest.