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Here are the NYT Strands answers for December 16, 2024. The date-specific answer guides identify this puzzle as #288, not #287; the supplied title appears to be off by one. Its theme was “Crossed Words,” and the spangram was PORTMANTEAUX.
December 16, 2024 Strands answers
The theme answers are all blends made by combining parts of other words:
- BRUNCH
- SPORK
- SMOG
- ANKLET
- ATHLEISURE
- ZORSES
What was the theme?
The theme was “Crossed Words.” Each answer combines word parts: breakfast and lunch make BRUNCH; spoon and fork make SPORK; smoke and fog make SMOG; ankle and bracelet make ANKLET; athletics and leisure make ATHLEISURE; and zebra and horse make ZORSES.
What was the spangram?
The spangram was PORTMANTEAUX. Keep the puzzle’s exact spelling: the answer guides list ZORSES and PORTMANTEAUX, not alternate forms.
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Why is this called puzzle #288 rather than #287?
Answer guides for December 16, 2024 identify the puzzle as #288, and a search-result archive listing pairs that date with “Crossed Words.” A Strands #287 daily thread is dated December 15. The official NYT archive was not available in the sources confirming these details, so #288 is the best-supported identification rather than an official archive verification.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How Strands works
Strands is a themed word search: players trace or select letters to form theme words. The spangram describes the theme and runs between opposite sides of the board. This mechanics description comes from a secondary answer guide, rather than an official NYT rules page.
Quick Recap
Rank #3
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