The New York Times’ Strands puzzle for January 2nd features a cozy theme, challenging players to uncover hidden words related to home comfort and warmth. If you’re stuck, this guide provides hints, word lists, and the complete solution, including today’s spangram.
Understanding the Puzzle
Strands is a word-search puzzle where players must identify words of four or more letters that fit the overarching theme. The game provides hints when three qualifying words are found, revealing theme-related terms. The ultimate goal is to uncover all thematic words, including the spangram, which spans the puzzle grid.
Hints for Today’s Puzzle
The core theme is: Home is where the hearth is. A helpful clue: Snuggle up.
Useful Words to Unlock Hints
To trigger in-game hints, use these words (or any other four-letter-plus terms you find):
- LAKE
- TAKE
- BAKE
- PEAT
- TAPE
- WIPE
- LASS
- BORE
- MELD
- BLANK
- PATE
- LATE
- TATE
- FIRE
- FILE
- RACE
Today’s Strands Answers
The non-spangram answers for today’s puzzle are:
- ROBE
- COCOA
- BLANKET
- CUDDLES
- SLIPPERS
- FIREPLACE
The Spangram
Today’s spangram is STAYWARM. Locate the “S” three letters to the right on the top row and follow the path down to complete the word.
Challenging Past Puzzles
Some previous Strands themes have proven particularly difficult for players. The toughest ones include:
- Dated Slang (January 21st): This puzzle tested players’ knowledge of outdated slang, with the word “PHAT” being especially tricky.
- Thar She Blows! (January 15th): This maritime-themed puzzle required knowledge of nautical terms, with “BALEEN” or “RIGHT” posing the biggest challenge.
These puzzles highlight the game’s capacity for varied difficulty, relying on niche vocabularies or cultural references.
