NYT Strands puzzle #288 for December 16, 2024, has the theme clue “Crossed Words.” The theme is about blending two words. Use the clues below for a gradual reveal; the complete answer list is farther down.
Hints for Strands #288
- Theme: The answers are words formed by blending two words.
- Board clue: The first answer is in the top half of the board.
- Spangram direction: It runs vertically, from top to bottom.
- First two letters: AT, ZO, AN, BR, SP, SM. The spangram begins PO.
- Entries: There are seven total entries, including the spangram.
Strands players trace connected letters to form words. Theme answers fill the board without overlapping, and the spangram describes the theme while touching two opposite sides. Finding three non-theme words earns a hint. Parade’s December 16 guide summarizes these rules.
Full answer list
Spoilers below.
- ATHLEISURE
- ANKLET
- BRUNCH
- SPORK
- SMOG
- ZORSE / ZORSES
- PORTMANTEAUX (spangram)
The sources differ on the ZORSE-family entry: Parade lists “ZORSES,” while Try Hard Guides lists “ZORSE.” The reviewed guides do not establish which spelling appears in the original grid, so both are shown rather than choosing one. Parade and Try Hard Guides agree on the puzzle identification and spangram.
Spangram: PORTMANTEAUX
The spangram is PORTMANTEAUX, running vertically from the top of the board to the bottom. It names the word-blending idea behind the “Crossed Words” theme.
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