NYT Strands Jan 15 Clues & Solutions

Strands is a concise daily word puzzle from the New York Times, the media powerhouse that acquired Wordle in 2022. The gameplay involves deciphering a single clue to uncover both the puzzle's theme and all eight related words hidden within a letter grid.

If you're familiar with Strands but hopelessly stuck on today's challenge, this guide offers escalating assistance—from subtle nudges to complete solutions.

NYT Games Strands Puzzle #318 - January 15, 2025

Today's challenge contains nine elements to identify: one Spangram plus eight thematic words. The cryptic clue reads: "Thar She Blows!"

NYT Games Strands Clues

For non-spoiler assistance, we've curated progressive hints. Each expandable section reveals increasingly specific guidance.

General Hint 1

Aquatic creatures from the deep.

General Hint 2

Marine mammals known for dramatic surfacing behavior.

General Hint 3

Some of the ocean's largest inhabitants.

Partial Solutions

For targeted help, these sections reveal two specific answers with their grid locations.

Spoiler 1

First word: Right

Spoiler 2

Second word: Humpback

Complete Solution

The final reveal shows all thematic words and the Spangram. Proceed only if you want the full answer.

Today's category: Whales. Solutions include: Beluga, Humpback, Baleen, Gray, Right, Blue, and Sperm.

Theme Explanation

The clue "Thar She Blows!" perfectly references whales' distinctive blowhole spouts. Each solution represents a different whale species—from the massive Blue to the distinctive Sperm whale.

Play Strands on the NYT Games website, accessible across most browsers.