Hey, Wordle enthusiasts! If you’re here, it likely means you’re eager to take on today’s Wordle challenge. Whether you seek a little assistance or just want the solution, we have tips, hints, and the answer waiting for you at the end of this page.
Prefer to figure it out alone? Continue scrolling for clues and strategies to help you identify today’s five-letter word.
Also worth exploring:
– 🧠 Enjoy more games like Mahjong, Sudoku, and crosswords at Mashable’s Games Hub.
– 🧩 Looking for assistance with today’s NYT Connections? We have hints and answers for May 18.
A Brief Wordle Background
Wordle was initially developed by software engineer Josh Wardle as a surprise for his partner. It rapidly gained traction, becoming a daily favorite for puzzle enthusiasts worldwide. The game’s success ignited a series of fan-made variations, such as:
– Squabble: A battle royale-style adaptation of Wordle
– Heardle: A music guessing game
– Dordle and Quordle: Versions where you guess multiple words simultaneously
Ultimately, the New York Times purchased Wordle, and it’s now included in their Games section. The game’s popularity even prompted TikTok creators to livestream their daily attempts.
What is the Optimal Wordle Starting Word?
There isn’t a definitive answer, but if you want to play strategically, begin with a word that incorporates at least two distinct vowels and common consonants like S, T, R, or N. Looking for ideas? We’ve compiled a list of some of the top starting words to assist you.
What Happened to the Wordle Archive?
Initially, fans could access an extensive archive of previous Wordle puzzles. However, that unofficial archive was removed at the request of the New York Times. The Times has since established its own official Wordle Archive, which is exclusively available to NYT Games subscribers.
Is Wordle Becoming More Difficult?
It may seem that way, but Wordle has not actually become harder. However, if you’re looking for a greater challenge, you can activate Hard Mode in the game’s settings.
Also check out:
– 🧩 NYT Mini Crossword answers for May 18, 2025
– 🧠 Best word games for Wordle fans to enjoy in real life
Today’s Wordle Clues
Need a bit of assistance? Here are some clues to help you:
– Subtle hint: Consider someone who is very upset.
– Double letter? Yes — the letter I appears twice.
– Starting letter: Today’s word begins with L.
Ready for the solution?
Time to finalize your last guess, because the reveal is here…
Today’s Wordle solution is:
LIVID
Didn’t manage to get it this time? No problem — there’s always tomorrow! We’ll return with more hints and the next answer to keep your streak going.
Also playing NYT Strands? Be sure to check out today’s hints and answers for that puzzle as well.
More from Mashable:
– 🏈 NYT Connections Sports Edition: Hints and answers for May 18
– 🧩 Explore more puzzles on our Games Hub — including Mahjong, Sudoku, and crosswords.
Contributors to this article include Chance Townsend, Caitlin Welsh, Sam Haysom, Amanda Yeo, Shannon Connellan, Cecily Mauran, Mike Pearl, and Adam Rosenberg.
Missed yesterday’s puzzle? You can find the May 17 Wordle solution here.