NYT Strands Puzzle: Hints and Answers for November 16, 2025

New York, NY

The latest puzzle from The New York Times‘ Strands game presents a fresh challenge for fans. On November 16, 2025, players are tasked with discovering words that fit a unique theme along with a special word known as a spangram.

The Strands puzzle features a six-by-eight grid filled with letters. Players must find groups of words that relate to a specific theme. Today’s theme, as revealed, is ‘Around it goes.’ The spangram for this round is ‘THATSAWRAP,’ which connects the letters vertically or horizontally.

According to The New York Times, puzzles often involve various themes, including fill-in-the-blank phrases or items within the same category. Tracy Bennett, who edits both Wordle and Strands, has indicated that players can expect curveballs in difficulty as well.

For those participating in today’s game, hints indicate that players might be looking for words associated with food and the objects used to wrap it. The Strands puzzle encourages quick thinking and word association, making it a fun exercise for players trying to improve their vocabulary.

The game is still in beta, and its future depends on users’ engagement. It is part of a suite of word games offered by the NYT, which also includes favorites like Wordle and Connections.

As participants eagerly search for the words that fit the theme, they encounter a blend of familiar and unexpected terms related to wrapping and packaging.

For extra assistance, The New York Times offers daily insights and hints for players. Fans of the game are encouraged to engage daily to help ensure its continuation.