NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Aug. 23, 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.

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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.

Antifreeze meaning

Coolant that stays liquid even in frigid temperatures.

Vacuum meaning

A tool used for cleaning.

Baking soda meaning

A substance used in baking or to combat odor.

Volcano meaning

A geologic feature from which magma is pushed to the surface of the earth as lava.

Vinegar meaning

An acidic fermented liquid used as an ingredient or flavoring

Vodka meaning

A form of alcohol often distilled from potatoes.

Tinderbox meaning

A container for materials used to start fires.

Potato battery meaning

An experiment which uses potatoes to generate and conduct small amounts of electricity.

Skiing meaning

Navigating down a snow-covered hill or across a body of water using skis.

Home fries meaning

A fried potato dish.

Club soda meaning

A carbonated, mineral-infused water.

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Powder keg meaning

A container filled with black powder and a phrase used to describe volatile situations.

Hydrogen peroxide meaning

A bleaching substance that has a variety of household uses (always read the safety label).

Bazaar meaning

A type of market where various goods can be purchased.

Vischyssoise

A soup that includes pureed leaks and potatoes.

Time bomb meaning

An explosive with a timed detonator.

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