NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Sept. 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.

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.

Age verification meaning

A technical process that determines a person's age before granting them access to view content or a website.

Captcha meaning

A security test used on websites to verify that a user is a real human, not an automated computer program or bot.

Cookie consent meaning

The permission a website obtains from the visitor before placing tracking cookies on their device.

Paywall meaning

A digital security or software system that blocks internet users from viewing website content unless they pay.

Keys meaning

Small metal items that unlock doors and other locked items.

Phone meaning

A device used to call or text someone.

Sunglasses meaning

An accessory that protects the eyes from the sun.

Wallet meaning

A small case that holds money, credit cards, identification, and other small personal items.

Bitcoin meaning

The first digital currency that allows transactions without a bank or government.

Record label meaning

A company that finances and distributes recorded music.

Rub-a-dub meaning

A saying used to describe getting clean while bathing.

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Suriname meaning

A small, diverse country on the Northeastern coast of South America.

Condensed milk meaning

A thick, sweet cow's milk made by removing most of its water.

Paint meaning

A thick colored liquid used to coat something, typically a wall or building.

Shaving cream meaning

A soft foam applied to the skin before removing hair with a razor..

Spam meaning

A canned assortment of meat.

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