Introduction to NYT Strands

On August 23, 2025, the New York Times introduced its latest puzzle game, NYT Strands. This engaging daily puzzle features fresh themes each day, challenging players to uncover all the words on the grid, including a unique Spangram that spans two sides of the board, enhancing the thematic experience.

A Brief History of NYT Puzzles

The New York Times launched its inaugural crossword puzzle on February 15, 1942, in the Sunday Magazine, thanks to the efforts of Charles Erlenkotter and editor Margaret Farrar. This marked the first major newspaper to feature a crossword puzzle. Over the years, the NYT has rolled out various captivating games, including the Mini Crossword in 2014, followed by Spelling Bee, Letter Boxed, and Tiles. The immensely popular Wordle debuted in 2022, followed by Connections and Strands.

Today's NYT Strands Puzzle

If you're struggling with today's NYT Strands puzzle, we have some helpful hints to ignite your curiosity. Additionally, the solution to today's puzzle is provided below:

Today's Theme for NYT Strands Theme for August 23, 2025

The theme for today's Strands is: Rub it in, why don’t you?

Hints for Today's Puzzle Hints for August 23, 2025

SPOILER ALERT: Below are the hints for today's NYT Strands, which may reveal parts of the answers. Proceed with caution:

Spangram Hint: Creams or lotions that keep skin soft and hydrated.

Here are some hints for the words:

A soothing ointment or salve used for healing or comfort.

A thick dairy product or a smooth lotion for skin care.

A liquid preparation to moisturize or treat skin.

A creamy spread made from churned milk or cream.

A sweet, gel-like food made from fruit juice.

A healing ointment for skin or wounds.

A concentrated skincare treatment, often for the face.

Answers for Today's NYT Strands Answers for August 23, 2025

• BALM


• CREAM


• LOTION


• BUTTER


• JELLY


• SALVE


• SERUM

Today's Spangram Today's Spangram

The Spangram for today's NYT Strands puzzle is: Moisturizers.

Understanding NYT Strands What Is NYT Strands and How to Play?

NYT Strands is a unique game that merges elements from Connections, Spelling Bee, and traditional crossword puzzles. Players are presented with 48 letters on a 6 x 8-inch board along with a daily theme. The objective is to solve the Spangram and identify all the theme words.

Players can connect letters on the grid to form words using a mouse or touch screen, dragging to connect letters in various directions.

Identifying the central theme word or Spangram is essential for grasping the Strands theme.

In addition to the Spangram, players must search for other theme words within the puzzle. Completing all words signifies solving the puzzle.

Tips for Solving the Puzzle Tips for Solving the Puzzle

Uncover the theme words: Fill the grid with the theme answers, which will be marked in blue when found and do not overlap.

Discover the Spangram: Look for the Spangram, a key element that connects two opposite sides of the board. It encapsulates the theme and may consist of two words, highlighted in yellow once identified.

Get hints: Use off-topic words as clues. For every three non-theme words revealed, letters will be highlighted to guide you toward a themed word without directly revealing it.