If you’re hooked on the daily NYT Strands puzzle, you’re not alone. It’s a fresh word game from the New York Times that combines elements of a word search with clever, theme-based twists.
23 September 2026 NYT Strands Theme: “Practically Paleolithic”
Today’s theme takes a playful look at things that are extremely old. The answers focus on vocabulary describing something ancient, outdated, or belonging to a bygone era. The wording of the theme provides a strong clue, while the spangram gives the puzzle its final connection.
23 September 2026 NYT Strands: Hints
- Think about words used to describe something extremely old.
- Look for terms associated with the distant past.
- Several answers can describe things that are outdated or no longer current.
- The theme points toward vocabulary connected with age and history.
- Expect a mix of familiar words and slightly more literary descriptions.
- The spangram ties the list together with a phrase about something being old news.
23 September 2026 NYT Strands: Answers
- Archaic
- Bygone
- Ancient
- Primeval
- Timeworn
Spangram
THAT’S OLD NEWS
The spangram reinforces the puzzle’s focus on age and outdated things. It connects the theme words through the idea of something being old, familiar, or no longer considered current.
How Strands works
Strands is a daily word search puzzle with a twist:
- You’re given a theme.
- The grid is packed with hidden words tied to that theme.
- Words can run in any direction, including diagonals.
- 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:
- To earn a hint, find any non-theme word of at least four letters in the grid.
- Each valid extra word gives you one hint.
- 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
- Start with obvious words. Look for clear connections to the theme first.
- Scan diagonals early. Strands loves to hide words at an angle.
- Build around found words. Once one word is cleared, the leftover letters often point to the next.
- Use hints wisely. Earn them steadily by spotting extra words, then save them for when you’re truly stuck.
- Think about synonyms. The theme clue isn’t always literal — broaden your thinking.
Final thoughts
The September 23 Strands puzzle leaned into a straightforward but flexible theme, with answers ranging from everyday descriptions to more literary terms. The spangram neatly captured the idea behind the entire set. How many did you find without using a hint?
Leave a Reply