Sure! Here’s a rewritten version of the article:
—
**Hello! Are you prepared for today’s Wordle challenge?**
As usual, we are here to offer you daily hints and techniques to assist you in solving today’s puzzle. If you just want the answer, scroll down to the bottom of this article for the solution to today’s Wordle. However, if you prefer to figure it out on your own, stay tuned for some useful clues, strategies, and perspectives.
—
**RELATED:**
– [Play Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and more games on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)
– [NYT Connections hints and answers for December 17](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-december-17-2024)
—
### **The Story Behind Wordle**
Wordle was initially designed by engineer Josh Wardle as a heartfelt gift for his significant other. It swiftly garnered worldwide attention, with countless players engaging in the daily word challenge. Enthusiasts even created alternative iterations of the game, like the battle royale-themed **Squabble**, the music guessing game **Heardle**, and multi-word challenges such as **Dordle** and **Quordle**, which require participants to guess multiple words at once.
The game’s popularity reached staggering heights, ultimately leading to its acquisition by **The New York Times**. Wordle even made its way to TikTok, where content creators broadcast their gameplay for viewers.
—
### **What’s the Ideal Starting Word for Wordle?**
The optimal starting word is one that suits you, but if you seek a tactical advantage, we have some recommendations. An effective starting word generally contains at least two vowels and frequent consonants like S, T, R, or N. [Check out our guide for additional tips](https://mashable.com/article/best-wordle-starting-word).
—
### **What Became of the Wordle Archive?**
There was a time when an archive of previous Wordle puzzles could be accessed by anyone. However, it was subsequently removed at the request of **The New York Times**. Since then, the Times has launched its own Wordle Archive, available exclusively to NYT Games subscribers.
—
### **Is Wordle Harder Than Before?**
It may seem like Wordle has become increasingly difficult, but the level of challenge has remained the same since it was first released. For those looking for a tougher experience, you can activate Wordle’s **Hard Mode** in the settings.
—
**RELATED:**
– [NYT’s The Mini crossword answers for December 17](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-mini-crossword-clues-answers-december-17-2024)
—
### **Clues for Today’s Wordle**
Looking for a hint? Here are some clues for today’s Wordle:
– **Hint:** It’s a scornful expression.
– **Double Letters?** No, today’s word has no letters repeating.
– **Starting Letter:** The word starts with the letter **S**.
—
**RELATED:**
– [Obsessed with Wordle? Try these word games in real life](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-word-games-for-wordle-fans)
—
### **Today’s Wordle Solution**
Ready for the answer? If you haven’t figured it out yet, this is your final opportunity. Are you ready?
**Drumroll, please…**
The answer to today’s Wordle is: **SCOWL**.
If you didn’t manage to get it this time, don’t be concerned! There’s always tomorrow’s puzzle to anticipate. And naturally, we’ll return with more hints and tips to assist you.
—
**RELATED:**
– [NYT Connections Sports Edition hints and answers for December 16](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-sports-edition-hint-answer-today-december-16)
—
**Looking for additional puzzles?**
Mashable has a complete hub of games for you to discover, including Mahjong, Sudoku, and free crosswords. [Check it out here](https://games.mashable.com/).
Missed yesterday’s Wordle? [Here’s the answer to December 16’s puzzle](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-december-16-2024).
—
*Reporting by Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg.*