NYT Connections today — hints and answers for Monday, November 18 (game #526)
For puzzle enthusiasts and avid solvers, The New York Times (NYT) crossword puzzle is a daily dose of mental exercise and entertainment. One of the most popular features of the puzzle is its “Connections” game, where the theme revolves around a common thread connecting certain answers. Today, on Monday, November 18, the NYT Connections game (#526) presents a fun challenge with its hints and answers. So, let’s dive in and explore the delightful connections awaiting us.
The theme of today’s puzzle revolves around words that are homophones – words that sound alike but have different meanings and spellings. This theme can create a playful and lighthearted experience for solvers.
1. “Hairdresser’s workplace” (5 letters) – The answer is “salon,” a place where haircuts, styling, and beauty treatments are performed. A homophone that matches it could be “slalom,” which is a word used in skiing and other sports, meaning to move quickly through a zigzag course.
2. “Spark” (4 letters) - The answer is “flame,” as a spark can ignite a flame. A suitable homophone for it is “fame,” which is associated with being well-known or recognized.
3. “Something worn around the neck” (5 letters) – The answer is “stole,” which typically refers to a scarf-like garment worn over the shoulders. An alternative homophone for it could be “stall,” which means to come to a standstill or to delay.
4. “Short and stout vessel” (3 letters) – The answer is “cup,” a small, cylindrical container used for drinking. The homophone analogy for this could be “cap,” a word associated with covering or sealing.
5. “Place to overnight” (4 letters) – The answer is “inn,” which is an establishment providing lodging and usually meals. A suitable homophone for it could be “in,” such as being inside a particular location.
6. “Crustacean caught in traps” (4 letters) - The answer is “crab,” a common seafood delicacy. A homophone that pairs with it could be “cab,” referring to a taxicab or any vehicle for hire.
7. ”To enrol or enlist, e.g.” (9 letters) – The answer is “sign up,” indicating signing up for a specific activity, group, or service. A homophone equivalent to this could be “sunup,” referring to the time at which the sun rises.
8. “Defeat soundly” (4 letters) – The answer is “whip,” meaning to forcefully defeat or be victorious over someone or something. A fitting homophone for it is “wisp,” which refers to a small, thin bunch or bundle of something.
9. “Distinguishing features on the face” (6 letters) – The answer is “noses,” indicating the plural form of the facial organ used for smelling. A possible homophone match could be “knows,” referring to the verb “know” in its third-person singular form.
10. “Ribbed for added traction, like car tires” (8 letters) - The answer is “treaded,” describing the texture or pattern present on certain tires. A suitable homophone could be “treated,” which means to handle or deal with in a particular way.
So, if you’re tackling the NYT crossword puzzle today, keep in mind these homophones to unveil the underlying connections. Solving the connections adds an extra element of fun and satisfaction to the overall crossword-solving experience.
Remember, when approaching any crossword puzzle, it’s essential to relax, let your mind explore different possibilities, and enjoy the journey. Crosswords are an excellent mental workout that keeps the brain sharp while providing immense enjoyment to millions of solvers worldwide.
