Strands is a captivating daily word puzzle game brought to you by the New York Times, the creators who also acquired Wordle in 2022. To master this game, you'll need to decipher a single clue to uncover not only the overarching theme but also all eight themed words. Your next challenge? Spotting these words within the provided letter grid.
If you're familiar with how to play Strands but find yourself hopelessly stuck on today's puzzle, this article is your lifeline. It offers everything from subtle hints to full-blown spoilers, including a couple of specific word reveals and, if you're really in a bind, the entire solution.
The NYT Games Strands Puzzle #318 - January 15, 2025
Today's Strands puzzle challenges you to find nine items: the Spangram and eight themed words. The clue to guide you? "Thar She Blows!"
New York Times Games Strands Clues
Looking for a nudge without the full reveal? Below, you'll find sections with individual clues to steer you closer to today's puzzle theme. Click "Read More" under each header to access these hints.
General Hint 1
Hint 1: Ocean dwellers.
read more
General Hint 2
Hint 2: Explosive animals.
read more
General Hint 3
Hint 3: Big swimming animals.
read more
Spoilers for Two of the Words in Today's Strands
If you're ready for a bit more help, the sections below each contain a spoiler for one of the words, complete with a screenshot showing its placement in the puzzle grid.
Spoiler 1
Word 1: Right
read more
Spoiler 2
Word 2: Humpback
read more
The Answer to Today's New York Times Games Strands
Need the complete solution? Below, you'll find all the themed words, the Spangram, and a visual guide on where they fit in the grid. Be warned: this section fully reveals the puzzle.
The theme for today is Whales. The words are Beluga, Humpback, Baleen, Gray, Right, Blue, and Sperm.
read more
Today's Strands Explained
If you've completed the puzzle but still need clarity on how it all ties together, the section below explains the theme and how it relates to the clue and the themed words.
"Thar She Blows" is an apt clue for today's puzzle, as Whales are known for their distinctive blowhole breathing, which can send a geyser of water and air into the sky. Each of the themed words represents a different type of whale.
read more
Interested in playing? Head over to the New York Times Games Strands website, accessible on nearly any device with a browser.
