At a Glance
- Theme: “Load up on tissues” with clue “Achoo!”
- Spangram: COLDSYMPTOM
- Answers include COUGH, SNEEZE, WHEEZE, SNORT, SNIFFLE, DRIP, HACK
- Why it matters: Daily puzzle solvers can quickly find answers and enjoy the challenge.
The New York Times Strands puzzle for December 28, 2025, centers on a sneeze-themed challenge. With the simple clue “Achoo!” solvers hunt for words that fit the theme “Load up on tissues.” The puzzle offers a mix of short words and a long spangram that spans the board.
Puzzle Theme and Clues
The theme encourages players to think of items related to tissues. The single clue, “Achoo!”, hints at a sneezing scenario. Finding three four-letter or longer words unlocks theme words.
- SOLD
- TOLD
- FINS
- SINS
- NEED
- HEMP
- DOTE
- DOTES
- CHEW
- NEEDS
- COLD
- COLDS
Answers and Spangram
Solvers must locate seven non-spangram words before discovering the spangram that covers the entire grid.
| Word | Category |
|---|---|
| DRIP | Non-spangram |
| HACK | Non-spangram |
| COUGH | Non-spangram |
| SNEEZE | Non-spangram |
| WHEEZE | Non-spangram |
| SNORT | Non-spangram |
| SNIFFLE | Non-spangram |
| COLDSYMPTOM | Spangram |
The spangram COLDSYMPTOM can be found by starting at the C in the far left of the top row and winding down through the grid. Once all answers are found, every letter on the board is used.
Key Takeaways
- The theme and clue focus on sneezing and tissues.
- The spangram COLDSYMPTOM spans the entire puzzle grid.
- Solving all words uses every letter on the board.
With the theme and answers revealed, puzzle enthusiasts can now tackle the Dec. 28 Strands puzzle with confidence.
