Strands, the daily word puzzle from the New York Times (the same folks who brought you Wordle), challenges you to unravel a themed word puzzle. You'll need to decipher the clue, identify the eight themed words, and then locate them within the letter grid.
Stuck? This guide offers hints, partial solutions, and—if you're truly stumped—the complete answer.
NYT Games Strands Puzzle #318, January 15, 2025
New York Times Games Strands Clues
Need a nudge in the right direction without spoilers? These hints will help you pinpoint the puzzle's theme.
General Hint 1
Hint 1: Ocean dwellers.
General Hint 2
Hint 2: Explosive animals.
General Hint 3
Hint 3: Big swimming animals.
Spoilers for Two of the Words in Today's Strands
These sections reveal one word each, along with its location in the grid. Use cautiously!
Spoiler 1
Word 1: Right
Spoiler 2
Word 2: Humpback
The Answer to Today's New York Times Games Strands
Major Spoiler Alert! Only proceed if you're completely stuck and want the full solution.
The category for today is Whales. The words are Beluga, Humpback, Baleen, Gray, Right, Blue, and Sperm.
Today's Strands Explained
Still puzzled? This section explains the connection between the clue, the theme, and the words.
"Thar She Blows!" is a classic whale-spotting exclamation, referencing the spout of water and air expelled from a whale's blowhole. Each themed word represents a different whale species.
Ready to play? Find the New York Times Games Strands website on your favorite device.