NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Sept. 21, 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 21, 2026 Compose meaning To create.

Drafts meaning An early, unfinished version of a piece of writing.

Sent meaning Transmitted.

Spam meaning Unsolicited digital messages.

Chum meaning A close friend or companion.

Fly meaning A small, winged bug.

Spinner meaning A person or object that rotates around a central point.

Worm meaning A long, thin slimy animal with no legs or bones.

Capture meaning To catch or take hold of something or someone.

Castle meaning A large building typically used to house royalty.