If you’ve found your way here, you’re probably seeking some tips on how to tackle [Strands](https://www.nytimes.com/games/strands), the elegant word search puzzle from *The New York Times*.
### How to Engage with Strands
Strands offers a distinctive take on the classic word search. You can create words by linking letters in any direction—up, down, left, right, or diagonally. Additionally, words can shift directions, forming unique patterns. Every letter in the grid contributes to a solution. Each puzzle revolves around a shared theme, and one standout word or phrase, termed the “spangram,” embodies the theme and stretches across the grid either horizontally or vertically.
### A More Complex Word Challenge
In contrast to *Wordle* or *Connections*, Strands does not supply a word list, presenting a more thought-provoking challenge. Rather, you receive a broad hint to steer you towards the theme. This aspect of Strands makes it a game that demands additional time and contemplation to unravel.
Should you find yourself puzzled or pressed for time, we provide hints to assist you in solving today’s Strands puzzle at your own pace.
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## Today’s NYT Strands Hints
### Theme Hint: *United for the Moment*
The terms in today’s puzzle are frequently linked to married couples.
### Theme Explanation
The responses pertain to customary anniversary gifts and their corresponding years.
### Spangram Hint: Vertical or Horizontal?
Today’s spangram is **vertical**.
### Spangram Answer
The spangram for today’s puzzle is **Anniversary**.
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## Today’s NYT Strands Word List (February 20)
– **First**
– **Paper**
– **Fiftieth**
– **Gold**
– **Sixtieth**
– **Diamond**
– **Anniversary**
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### Seeking Additional Games?
If you relish daily puzzles, visit [Mashable’s Games page](https://mashable.com/category/games) for further hints and challenges. You can also check out [Mashable’s game hub](https://games.mashable.com/) for Mahjong, Sudoku, crosswords, and much more.
Missed out on yesterday’s puzzle? [Find the solution here](https://mashable.com/article/strands-nyt-hint-february-19-2025).