NYT Strands combines word search with thematic puzzles, challenging players to find hidden words related to a daily theme. Today’s “The cutting edge” theme points to dynamic moves in a high-flying sport.
February 16 2026 NYT Strands Theme: The Cutting Edge
This theme evokes precise, acrobatic maneuvers on ice, central to an elegant winter Olympic event. The spangram stretches across the grid, encapsulating the sport itself.
February 16 2026 NYT Strands Hints
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Seek terms for maneuvers and techniques in a gliding, rotational sport.
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Focus on actions involving jumps, turns, and throws.
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Words vary from solo spins to partnered lifts.
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Check the central and diagonal areas for combo terms.
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The spangram names the sport tying all words together.
February 16 2026 NYT Strands Answers
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Jump (a launch into the air with rotation)
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Lift (a partner raises the other overhead)
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Loop (a backward takeoff jump with free foot behind)
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Spin (rapid rotation on one foot)
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Combo (linked sequence of jumps or elements)
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Crossover (a turning step using the inside edge)
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Throw (partner-assisted launch for jumps)
Spangram
Figure Skating
The spangram captures the icy discipline featuring these advanced techniques, from solo artistry to pairs synchronization.
How Strands works
Strands is a daily word search puzzle with a twist:
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You’re given a theme.
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The grid is packed with hidden words tied to that theme.
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Words can run in any direction, including diagonals.
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Once you find all the theme words, you’re done!
Each puzzle usually has around 6–8 theme words.
How to get and use hints
Hints are built right into Strands, and they’re super useful if you’re stuck:
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To earn a hint, find any non-theme word of at least four letters in the grid.
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Each valid extra word gives you one hint.
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When you use a hint, one of the theme words will be revealed automatically, helping you move forward.
Pro tip: Don’t just burn hints — use them strategically when the grid feels impossible. Sometimes a single revealed word unlocks the entire board.
Tips to become a NYT Strands pro
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Start with obvious words. Look for clear connections to the theme first.
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Scan diagonals early. Strands loves to hide words at an angle.
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Build around found words. Once one word is cleared, the leftover letters often point to the next.
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Use hints wisely. Earn them steadily by spotting extra words, then save them for when you’re truly stuck.
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Think about synonyms. The theme clue isn’t always literal — broaden your thinking.
Final thoughts
Today’s puzzle sliced through with thrilling figure skating terms, where spotting the spangram glided the rest into place. The “cutting edge” hint cleverly nods to skate blades and innovation in the sport. How fast did you land the jumps?
