Solve the Christmas Eve Strands Puzzle! Are you ready to tackle today's challenging puzzle? This guide provides spoiler-free hints, individual word solutions (if needed), a theme explanation, and the complete answer.
The NYT Games Strands Puzzle #296 (December 24, 2024)
Today's Strands puzzle features the clue: Who on Earth...? Seven words await – six themed words and one pangram.
Helpful Hints (Spoiler-Free)
Need a nudge in the right direction without ruining the fun? These hints will help you uncover the theme:
General Hint 1
Hint 1: Think about people who inhabit the Earth.
General Hint 2
Hint 2: Focus on common given names.
General Hint 3
Hint 3: Consider names that also represent natural elements.
Individual Word Spoilers
Stuck on a specific word? These sections reveal one word at a time, along with its placement in the puzzle. Only proceed if you want targeted help.
Spoiler 1
Word 1: Brook
Spoiler 2
Word 2: Willow
Complete Solution
Ready to see the full solution? The following section reveals all themed words, the pangram, and their positions in the grid.
The theme is Nature Names. The words are Holly, Willow, Brook, Laurel, River, and Clementine.
Theme Explanation
Still puzzled? This section explains the connection between the clue, theme, and words.
The themed words are all names that also refer to things found in nature (e.g., River). The clue, "Who on Earth...?" fits perfectly as it refers to these naturally occurring names.
Ready to play? Visit the New York Times Games Strands website! It's accessible on most devices.