Word puzzle solutions from the New York Times

Solve today's Christmas Eve NYT Games Strands puzzle with this helpful guide! Unsure if the puzzle's holiday-themed? This guide provides spoiler-free hints, individual word solutions (if needed), theme explanations, and the complete answer.

NYT Games Strands Puzzle #296, December 24, 2024

Today's Strands puzzle clue is Who on Earth...? Seven words await: one pangram and six themed words.

Clues and Hints for NYT Games Strands

Need a nudge without spoilers? These hints point you towards the theme:

General Hint 1

Hint 1: Earthly inhabitants.

read more### General Hint 2

Hint 2: Common given names.

read more### General Hint 3

Hint 3: Names found in nature.

read moreWord Spoilers

Stuck on a specific word? These sections offer individual spoilers and placement screenshots. Only open if you need help!

Spoiler 1

Word 1: Brook

read more### Spoiler 2

Word 2: Willow

read moreComplete Solution to Today's Strands Puzzle

Ready for the full answer? This section reveals all themed words, the pangram, and their grid positions.

The theme is Nature Names. The words are Holly, Willow, Brook, Laurel, River, and Clementine.

read morePuzzle Explanation

Need a deeper understanding? This section breaks down the clue, theme, and word connections.

The themed words are all names that also represent elements of nature (like River). The clue, "Who on Earth...?" refers to these naturally occurring names.

read morePlay Strands! Find the New York Times Games Strands website and play on your favorite device.