NYT Connections arranges sixteen words into four related groups; today's puzzle (7 December 2025) mixed woodworking terminology, fast-paced verbs, edible anatomy, and a classic "fill-in-the-blank" word association. Some groups were trade-specific while others relied on synonyms and geography-adjacent proper nouns. Below you'll find careful hints to nudge you toward each set followed by the full, grouped answers for solvers who want to check their work.

NYT Connections Puzzle Overview: 7 December 2025

The 7 December 2025 grid presented one group of words related to rapid movement, one technical set for carpentry enthusiasts, a collection of "offal" meats, and a word-association category requiring a specific two-letter Spanish article prefix. Solvers likely breezed through the speed synonyms then paused at the specific joinery terms and anatomical cuts.

NYT Connections Hints: 7 December 2025

Category 1:
  • All four entries are verbs describing moving at high speed.
  • They imply rushing, dashing, or moving in an uncontrolled manner.
  • One entry is also a metal fastener, and another is a container for liquids.
  • Think "sprint" or "charge."
Category 2:
  • This group collects specific techniques or joints used in woodworking.
  • These are ways to connect two pieces of lumber together.
  • One sounds like a bishop's hat; another sounds like a bird's tail.
  • These terms are essentials in a carpenter's vocabulary.
Category 3:
  • All four words are organs or internal parts of animals used as food.
  • They are often referred to as "variety meats" or offal.
  • One is a muscle that pumps blood; another is used for tasting.
  • These are distinct from standard muscle cuts like "steak" or "chop."
Category 4:
  • Each word follows the Spanish definite article "El."
  • Think of famous artists, cities, mythical places, or geological formations.
  • The missing prefix translates to "The" in English.
  • Phrases include a famous cliff in Yosemite and a Texan border city.

NYT Connections Answers: 7 December 2025

Category 1
Category 2
Category 3
Category 4

Conclusion & Quick Strategy Tip

Today’s puzzle balanced straightforward synonyms for speed with niche knowledge categories like carpentry and butchery—a satisfying mix of general and specialized vocabulary. Quick strategy tip: if you spot words that look like proper nouns (like "Capitan" or "Greco"), try placing common prefixes before them to see if a pattern emerges.