The NYT Strands puzzle for Sunday, September 20, 2026, is number 931. Today’s board focuses on vocabulary associated with ostentatious behavior and self-importance. As with all standard Strands challenges, this puzzle utilizes a 6×8 grid containing exactly 48 letters that must be completely filled by the theme words and the spangram.
Strands #931 Theme and Progressive Hints
The official theme for today is “Putting on airs.”
If the theme is not immediately clear, use these progressive hints to narrow down the word list:
- Broad Hint: All the words describe ways people show off or act superior to others.
- Stronger Hint: Several of these words are synonyms for bragging or walking with an arrogant gait.
- Slang Hint: One word in the set is a modern piece of internet slang for showing off one’s wealth or physique.
If you are struggling to find words, remember that identifying three valid non-theme words of four or more letters will provide a hint, highlighting the letters of one theme word on the board.
Spangram Hint and Location
The spangram for today is a ten-letter word (when combined) that describes a state of being magnificent or impressive, often to an excessive degree.
Spangram Hint: GRANDIOSITY
The spangram begins with the letter “G” located on the far right of the top row. It winds its way through the center of the grid to reach the opposite side.
SPOILER WARNING: Final Answers for Sept. 20, #931
Do not scroll further if you wish to solve the puzzle on your own. The following section contains all theme words and the completed spangram.
Today’s Strands Answers
The vocabulary in puzzle #931 is largely traditional, with one notable exception. While words like “BOAST” and “BLUSTER” have been in use for centuries, “FLEX” represents the contemporary slang addition to the set. According to reports from Forbes, the grid is designed to be solved by connecting these synonyms for arrogance.
- GRANDIOSITY (Spangram)
- BRAG
- FLEX
- BOAST
- GLOAT
- STRUT
- BLUSTER
- POSTURE
All eight words, including the spangram, account for the 48-letter total required to clear the board. The arrangement of “POSTURE” and “BLUSTER” typically provides the most difficulty due to their length and placement at the bottom of the grid.
