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NYT Connections puzzle #856, for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, groups its words around captivating, summaries, stopping something, and animal names missing their first letter. Try the graduated hints below before opening the answer key.
Hints for Connections #856
Start with a nudge, then move down the list only if you need more help.
- You have my attention.
- Give me the rundown.
- _____! Who goes there?
- Think animals.
Answers for Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Spoilers below: the categories and their four words are revealed next.
- CAPTIVATE: ABSORB, ENGAGE, HOLD, OCCUPY
- SUMMARY: BRIEF, DIGEST, OUTLINE, REVIEW
- HALT: CHECK, CURB, STAUNCH, STEM
- ANIMALS MINUS STARTING LETTER: ANTHER, EASEL, HARK, LAMA
How the groups fit
CAPTIVATE
ABSORB, ENGAGE, HOLD, and OCCUPY can all describe capturing or keeping someone’s attention.
#1 Best Overall
SUMMARY
BRIEF, DIGEST, OUTLINE, and REVIEW can each refer to a concise account or overview.
HALT
CHECK, CURB, STAUNCH, and STEM can all mean to stop or restrain something.
Rank #2
ANIMALS MINUS STARTING LETTER
Remove the first letter from each animal name: panther becomes ANTHER, weasel becomes EASEL, shark becomes HARK, and llama becomes LAMA.
Quick Recap
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