The New York Times Connections puzzle challenges players to sort 16 seemingly unrelated words into four connected groups. Each group shares a hidden link. Today’s grid blends animal sounds, homophones, stress responses, and laughter types, making it both playful and tricky. Below you’ll find gentle hints to guide your thinking, followed by the complete solutions once you’re ready to check your work.
NYT Connections Puzzle Overview: 16 February 2026
Today’s puzzle felt balanced with thematic variety. One category focused on chicken noises, another on words that sound like “do,” while stress reactions and laugh outbursts added layers. The yellow group was likely easiest for bird enthusiasts, but purple homophones tripped up many.
NYT Connections Hints: 16 February 2026
Category 1:
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Expressions of amusement or chaos.
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Often heard in crowds or comedies.
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They build on “laugh” or imply disorder.
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Think rowdy reactions.
Category 2:
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Pronunciations of a simple verb or note.
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Includes baking ingredient and cartoon exclamation.
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Sound-alikes unite them.
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Say them out loud.
Category 3:
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Noises from a farm bird.
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Includes male call, laugh-like cackle, and clock sound.
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What you’d hear in a coop.
Category 4:
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Reactions to danger or pressure.
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Classic “fight, flight, or _____.”
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Includes pleading animal sound.
NYT Connections Answers: 16 February 2026
Here are the answers, grouped by category.
Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4
Conclusion & Quick Strategy Tip
The 16 February 2026 Connections puzzle mixes auditory themes with psychological and linguistic twists for a fun solve.
Quick strategy tip: Group obvious sound-alikes first, then scan for animal or reaction patterns in leftovers.
