If you’re visiting this page, it’s likely you seek some assistance with [**Strands**](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), the *New York Times*’ elegant word-search game.
**Strands** reimagines the classic word search format. Rather than merely discovering words in direct lines, players have the freedom to combine letters in any orientation — upwards, downwards, sideways, or diagonally — even altering directions mid-word to create distinct shapes and patterns. Each letter in the grid contributes to a solution, and all solutions are connected by a unified theme. Furthermore, there’s the “spangram,” a unique word or phrase that encapsulates the day’s theme, stretching across the entire grid either horizontally or vertically.
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### Related:
– [Engage with Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword puzzles, and more on Mashable](https://games.mashable.com/)
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In contrast to other *New York Times* games like [**Wordle**](https://mashable.com/category/wordle) or [**Connections**](https://mashable.com/category/connections), **Strands** elevates the challenge by providing only a minimal hint and no designated word list, resulting in a more time-consuming and mentally stimulating experience. However, if you’re pressed for time or find yourself at an impasse, we offer all the hints you require to solve today’s puzzle at your leisure.
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### Related:
– [Wordle today: Solutions and hints for December 26](https://mashable.com/article/wordle-today-answer-december-26-2024)
– [NYT Connections hints and solutions for December 26](https://mashable.com/article/nyt-connections-hint-answer-today-December-26-2024)
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### **Today’s NYT Strands Theme Hint: Relative Conjunction**
The theme centers around individuals you might encounter at a family gathering.
### **Theme Explained**
All the words are titles of various relatives.
### **Spangram Hint: Horizontal or Vertical?**
Today’s spangram is arranged horizontally.
### **Spangram Answer**
Today’s spangram is **Reunion**.
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### **NYT Strands Word List for December 26**
Here’s the complete compilation of words for today’s challenge:
– **Grandchild**
– **Niece**
– **Nephew**
– **Uncle**
– **Aunt**
– **Cousin**
– **In-law**
– **Reunion**
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Searching for additional online games? Explore [**Mashable’s Games page**](https://mashable.com/category/games) for hints, advice, and a wide range of puzzles. Want even more? Visit our [**games hub**](https://games.mashable.com/) to engage with Mahjong, Sudoku, free crosswords, and other challenges.
Missed yesterday’s challenge? [Here’s the solution to December 25’s Strands.](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-december-25-2024)