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A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11For the Monday, December 22, 2025, NYT Strands puzzle, game #659, the theme is “Pass it along.” Start with the hints below if you want to solve it yourself; the full answer list is farther down.
Progressive hints for Strands #659
Theme clue
Think of something you give to someone else after receiving it yourself.
Spangram clue
The spangram is a nine-letter word for giving a present a new owner. It runs from the left edge, fourth row, to the right edge, third row.
Theme-word initials and lengths
Use these if you need another nudge. The initials and letter counts are listed without revealing the words:
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- B — 4 letters
- C — 6 letters
- E — 8 letters
- G — 6 letters
- L — 6 letters
- S — 5 letters
- W — 4 letters
How Strands hints work
Parade reproduces the New York Times instructions as follows: “Find theme words to fill the board.” Theme words fill the board entirely and do not overlap. The spangram describes the theme and touches two opposite sides of the board; it may be two words.
Finding three non-theme words earns an in-game hint. A hint reveals the letters of a theme word; if a hint is already active, it reveals that word’s letter order. These instructions are attributed to the New York Times by Parade.
Full answers for December 22, 2025
Spoiler warning: The complete solution is below.
- Spangram: REGIFTING
- Theme words: BOOK, CANDLE, EARRINGS, GADGET, LOTION, SCARF, WINE
Where to play
Strands is available through the NYT Games site on desktop and mobile, according to TechRadar’s puzzle coverage. The December 22 answer set is also recorded in the Strands Solution date archive.
Quick Recap
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