At a Glance
- NYT Strands puzzle for Dec. 26, 2025 has theme “Please hold.”
- The spangram reads BOXINGDAY.
- Non-spangram answers include GIFT, SHOE, TOOL, LUNCH, MATCH, PIZZA, BALLOT, and TACKLE.
- Why it matters: Puzzle enthusiasts can use these clues to solve the puzzle more quickly.
The New York Times daily Strands puzzle returned on Dec. 26, 2025 with a new theme and a set of clue words that help solvers unlock hidden answers. The theme, “Please hold,” is hinted at by a playful clue about cats and toys. Below is a quick guide to the puzzle’s key words and how to find the spangram.
Puzzle Theme & Clue
The theme “Please hold” suggests a word that implies restraint or a pause. The accompanying hint says cats love these more than expensive toys, pointing to a playful or comforting item. Solvers can look for words that fit this idea while searching the grid.
Word List & Answers
To unlock theme hints, find any four-letter or longer words. The author used words such as BOXING, CHEAT, HEAT, SMOCK, MOCK, LATE, TEAM, MEAT, TEAMS, LOOT, TOLE, BALL, BALE, KALE, TALL. The puzzle’s non-spangram answers are: GIFT, SHOE, TOOL, LUNCH, MATCH, PIZZA, BALLOT, TACKLE.
Finding the Spangram
The spangram spans the grid from one side to the other and reads BOXINGDAY. It starts at the B that is four letters down on the far-left row, then winds across and down. Solvers can follow this path to confirm the spangram.
Key Takeaways
- Theme “Please hold” guides word selection.
- Spangram BOXINGDAY can be traced from the left-most B.
- Non-spangram answers are all words that can precede “box.”
The puzzle offers a fun challenge for fans of NYT crosswords and word games. By following these clues, solvers can complete the grid efficiently.
