Looking for the solution to NYT Connections for September 23, 2025? You’re in the right place! As always, the puzzle asks you to sort 16 words into four groups of four. Some connections are obvious, while others can get tricky — but don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with hints and the full answers below.
NYT Connections Puzzle: 23 September 2025 Overview

NYT Connections Hints: 23 September 2025
Category 1:
- Something springy or full of energy, like a ball.
- Opposite of dull or dark, brings literal and figurative light.
- Means happy and festive, often heard in carols.
- Weather word often used to describe an optimistic personality.
Category 2:
- A very young child.
- A small carriage you push during a stroll.
- A protective edge, often attached to vehicles or furniture.
- Material known for its stretchiness and bounce.
Category 3:
- A small suitcase perfect for overhead bins.
- Soft, cylindrical bag often carried for sports or short trips.
- Hard exterior suitcase built to protect fragile contents.
- Suitcase with wheels you can easily pull along.
Category 4:
- The charismatic high-school slacker who takes a legendary day off.
- A cult film with a group name in the title — plural but refers to them as one.
- The whip-cracking archaeologist hero.
- Quirky bow-tie-wearing man with a famous big adventure.
NYT Connections Answers: 23 September 2025
Category 1:

Category 2:

Category 3:

Category 4:

Wrapping Up
Today’s puzzle is all about vibes and pop culture. There’s brightness, childhood imagery, travel references, and a retro movie throwback. It’s a puzzle that rewards memory, word association, and a sense of fun.
Tip: Knock out the cheerful group first — those words shine like a spotlight. The luggage group is easy to spot next. Save the tongue-twister set for last, since it’s the least obvious category and the trickiest to parse.
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