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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →These are the hints and answers for the NYT Connections board from Monday, February 16, 2026: puzzle #981. The board has 16 words to sort into four groups of four. Start with the clues below if you want a nudge before revealing the complete solutions.
The 16 Connections words
BUCK, SCREAM, DO, LAUGH, FAWN, DOE, FLIGHT, SQUAWK, HOOT, FIGHT, RIOT, DOUGH, FREEZE, CACKLE, DOH, CLUCK.
Hints for February 16
These clues move from a broad category nudge to a representative word, then the category name. Stop at any point if you want to keep solving.
Category nudges
- Four words can describe something funny.
- Four words sound alike, though they are spelled differently.
- Four are associated with a barnyard bird.
- Four describe possible reactions to stress.
One word from each group
- HOOT
- DOE
- CLUCK
- FREEZE
Category names
- KNEE SLAPPER
- HOMOPHONES
- SOUNDS A CHICKEN MAKES
- STRESS RESPONSES
Connections answers for puzzle #981
| Category | Words |
|---|---|
| KNEE SLAPPER | HOOT, LAUGH, RIOT, SCREAM |
| HOMOPHONES | DO, DOE, DOH, DOUGH |
| SOUNDS A CHICKEN MAKES | BUCK, CACKLE, CLUCK, SQUAWK |
| STRESS RESPONSES | FAWN, FIGHT, FLIGHT, FREEZE |
The answer sets are recorded by Forbes and independently by Parade. These are secondary answer guides; an official NYT answer record for this archived board was not established.
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Where to play or find the archive
Connections is available through the NYT website and Games app. Archive access may depend on eligibility or subscription, and current access terms can change; check NYT Games for the latest details.
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