Stuck on today’s NYT Strands puzzle? You’re in the right place. Whether you need a small nudge or the full answer list, we’ve got everything you need for the February 18, 2026 Strands puzzle.
What Is NYT Strands?
NYT Strands is a word-search game from the New York Times with a twist. Instead of just finding words in a straight line, letters can connect in any direction — and even change direction mid-word.
Every letter on the board belongs to an answer. There’s also a special word called the spangram that spans the entire grid and sums up the day’s theme.
Today’s Theme Hint (February 18, 2026)
Theme Clue: “Cold Competition”
Today’s puzzle is all about cold weather activities. Think about sports you’d see at the Winter Olympics — that’s your best hint.
NYT Strands Spangram Hint for February 18
- Direction: Vertical
- Spangram Answer: Winter Sports
NYT Strands Answers for February 18, 2026
Here are all the words in today’s puzzle:
- Luge
- Hockey
- Curling
- Bobsled
- Snowboarding
All five words are cold-weather sports, tying neatly into the spangram Winter Sports.
How to Play NYT Strands
Basic Rules
- Connect letters by moving up, down, left, right, or diagonally.
- Words can change direction — they don’t have to go in a straight line.
- Every single letter on the board must be used.