
If you’re reading this, you’re likely in search of expert guidance to enhance your experience with Strands, the innovative word-search game featured by the New York Times. This game takes the classic concept of word searching and elevates it, providing a unique twist that challenges even seasoned puzzle enthusiasts.
Strands requires players to engage in a creative approach to word discovery. Unlike traditional word searches, where words are simply found in straight lines, this game allows for a more dynamic exploration of letters. Players can connect letters in various directions—up, down, left, right, and diagonally. Additionally, words can change their trajectory, leading to unexpected shapes and patterns that make the game both intriguing and enjoyable. Importantly, every letter in the grid contributes to the solutions, and a central theme ties all answers together. Each puzzle features a “spangram,” an overarching word or phrase that encapsulates the day’s theme and stretches across the grid either horizontally or vertically.
Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Play games on Mashable
Strands stands out by offering an enigmatic hint while omitting a direct word list, resulting in a mentally stimulating challenge that often takes longer to complete compared to other popular games such as Wordle and Connections. This unique approach encourages players to think critically and creatively to decipher the clues and construct their words.
If you find yourself stuck or simply lack the time to dedicate to today’s puzzle—whether it’s 10 minutes or more—don’t worry! We have compiled all the essential NYT Strands hints for today, enabling you to progress at a pace that suits your schedule and keeps the game enjoyable.

Wordle today: Answer, hints for December 21
NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for December 21
Explore Today’s NYT Strands Theme: Keeping the Faith
The words associated with today’s theme revolve around the practice of various religions and spiritual beliefs. This theme invites players to reflect on places and concepts that are integral to their faith journeys.
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Unraveling Today’s NYT Strands Theme with Detail
The words included in today’s puzzle represent various locations and concepts where individuals might go to practice their faith. This thematic focus enhances the game by providing players with meaningful connections to their own experiences and beliefs.
Decipher Today’s NYT Strands Spangram: Vertical or Horizontal?
Today’s NYT Strands spangram is oriented horizontally across the grid, serving as a key component in solving the puzzle and tying together the day’s theme.
Reveal Today’s NYT Strands Spangram Answer for Players
The answer to today’s spangram is SacredSpaces, encapsulating the essence of today’s theme and providing a hint towards the words you’ll find in the puzzle.
Complete NYT Strands Word List for December 21
Looking for other daily online games? Mashable’s Games page has more hints, and if you’re seeking additional puzzles, Mashable’s got games now!
Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Strands.
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