Strands is the New York Times' newest daily word challenge - a bite-sized puzzle from the creators who brought you Wordle. Players must decode a thematic clue to uncover both the puzzle's category and eight hidden words within a letter grid.

If today's Strands has you completely stranded, you're in the right place. Below you'll find progressive hints, selective spoilers for two words, or the full solution if you need it.

The NYT Games Strands Puzzle #318 - January 15, 2025

Today's puzzle contains nine elements to identify: one Spangram (the overarching answer) plus eight thematic words. The starter clue reads: Thar She Blows!

Non-Spoiler Clues to Get You Started

Progressive Hint 1

First hint: Marine mammals.

Progressive Hint 2

Second hint: Aquatic creatures known for spectacular spouts.

Progressive Hint 3

Third hint: Massive marine mammals that breathe through blowholes.

Partial Answer Assistance

First Thematic Word

Solution 1: Right (accompanied by in-grid visual)

Second Thematic Word

Solution 2: Humpback (with in-puzzle visualization)

Complete Strands Solution

Today's category: Whales. The complete word list includes: Beluga, Humpback, Baleen, Gray, Right, Blue, and Sperm.

Puzzle Explanation

The clue "Thar She Blows!" perfectly captures today's whale theme, referencing the distinctive spouting behavior of these marine giants through their blowholes. Each identified word represents a different whale species, tying the category together cohesively.

Ready to play? Strands is available through the New York Times Games portal on nearly all web-enabled devices.