NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Sept. 20, 2026

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.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for September 20, 2026 Blu-Ray meaning An optical disc used to store high-definition videos.

Coaster meaning A flat, round disk for placing a drink upon.

Sand dollar meaning A flat, round marine animal related to sea urchins and starfish.

Tortilla meaning A thin, round flatbread made from corn or flour.

Bluegrass meaning A genre of American music inspired by jazz and blues, usually associated with Kentucky.

Bourbon meaning A barrel-aged whisky, commonly made in Kentucky.

Derby meaning A sports match between two rival teams in the same area.

Fried chicken meaning A popular protein entree cooked to a crisp in grease.

Hover meaning To float in the air.

Skate meaning A shoe with a blade or wheels to move on ice or hard surfaces.