NYT Strands Puzzle Hints and Answers for 18 February 2026

Hints

If you’re diving into today’s NYT Connections puzzle, you’re in for a chilly treat! The theme of “Cold competition” perfectly encapsulates the vibe of the Winter Olympics. As you navigate through the clues, consider the various medal events that showcase athletic skill against the backdrop of snow and ice.

Here are some helpful hints without giving too much away: Focus on identifying related terms that evoke the spirit of sports in a winter setting. Look for words associated with activities performed on ice or snow. Even if you feel stuck, remember that any valid four-letter word can help unlock additional hints.

Try these starter words to uncover clues: HOTE, BUNT, KEYS, POTS, SPOT, and SPOTS. Each time you find three words of four letters or more, you’ll receive a hint, aiding your quest to piece together the puzzle’s hidden gems.

Answers

Ready for the reveal? The goal is to uncover all the words related to the winter sports theme, including the prominent spangram that ties the entire puzzle together. Here’s what you need:

Non-Spangram Answers:

  • LUGE
  • BOBSLED
  • HOCKEY
  • CURLING
  • SNOWBOARDING

Spangram Answer:

  • WINTERSPORTS

To locate the spangram, start with the letter “W” at the top, and weave through the letters to complete your solution.

With these answers in hand, you’re set to conquer today’s puzzle. Engage with fellow puzzle enthusiasts and revel in the thrill of discovery that comes with every solved challenge!

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