If you’re visiting, it’s likely that you’re seeking some assistance with playing [**Strands**](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), *The New York Times*’ elegant word-search challenge.
**Strands** reimagines the conventional word search. Rather than merely locating words in straight lines, you can create words by connecting letters in any direction — upward, downward, sideways, or diagonally. Words can even shift direction in the middle, forming distinctive shapes and patterns. Each letter in the grid contributes to a solution, and all answers are linked by a shared theme. Moreover, every puzzle includes a “spangram” — a unique word or phrase that embodies the day’s theme and spans the grid either horizontally or vertically.
### What sets Strands apart?
In contrast to other well-liked games like [**Wordle**](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [**Connections**](https://mashable.com/category/connections), **Strands** provides a more demanding experience. It offers only a vague clue about the theme and omits a word list, resulting in a mental challenge. Consequently, solving the puzzle may take a bit longer, but it’s exceptionally rewarding once you succeed.
If you’re feeling stuck or pressed for time, there’s no need to panic — we’ve compiled all the hints and answers you require to approach today’s **NYT Strands** puzzle at your leisure.
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### **Today’s NYT Strands Theme Hint: You say you want a revolution**
Today’s theme revolves around elements that spin.
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### **Clarifying Today’s NYT Strands Theme**
The words featured in today’s puzzle all pertain to items or ideas frequently linked to spinning or rotating.
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### **Spangram Hint: Vertical or Horizontal?**
Today’s spangram is vertical.
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### **Spangram Answer for Today**
Today’s spangram for the puzzle is **Spinners**.
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### **NYT Strands Word List for December 18**
Here’s the complete list of words for today’s challenge:
– **Pinwheel**
– **Earth**
– **Football**
– **Dryer**
– **Tires**
– **Ballerina**
– **Spinners**
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### Seeking More Games?
If you enjoy puzzles and word games, explore [**Mashable’s Games page**](https://mashable.com/category/games) for additional hints and solutions. You’ll find a range of other games like Mahjong, Sudoku, and complimentary crosswords to keep you engaged.
Missed yesterday’s puzzle? [Here’s the solution to December 17’s Strands.](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-17-2024)
For even more gaming enjoyment, visit our [**games hub**](https://games.mashable.com/) for a broad array of puzzles and challenges.
Happy puzzling!