NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Nov. 9, 2026

November 8, 2026

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Looking for spoiler-free NYT Connections hints or just wondering why Connections is trending today? We've got what you need to understand the clues for today's puzzle without spoiling any of the answers.

Of course, Mashable has also provided daily hints and answers for Connections, Wordle, and Strands for years, so we can help you if that's also what you need.

While we are focused more on meanings than hints in this story, sometimes learning that many of the words have completely unrelated meanings is a clue in and of itself. Connections frequently includes clues that involve words within words and other visual clues.

Bootcut meaning

A style of jean that fits tight on the thighs and flares out at the knee.

Distressed meaning

Feeling upset, worried, anxious or deeply unhappy.

Low-rise meaning

A type of jeans where the waistline sits low.

Skinny meaning

Very thin or having little body fat.

Card shark meaning

An expert card player who uses skill, deception or cheating to win money.

Fun sponge meaning

Someone who ruins a good time.

Gamma ray meaning

A form of high-energy, short-wavelength electromagnetic radiation.

Navy Seal meaning

The U.S. Navy’s primary special operations force.

Con job meaning

A deceptive scheme.

Flimflam meaning

A trick or deception.

Rip-off meaning

A scam.

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Shell game meaning

A street trick and confidence scam.

Grapefruit spoon meaning

A large citrus fruit.

Mint leaf meaning

An aromatic leaf typically in tea.

Steak knife meaning

A knife made specifically to cut steak.

Tape dispenser meaning

A holder for tape.

Have you learned the meanings and still want the things? Check out the hints and answers for today's NYT Connections puzzle.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? Get all the Strands hints you need for today's puzzle.

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NYT Strands hints, answers for November 9, 2026
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