NYT Connections hints today: Meanings for each word for Aug. 22, 2026

Mashable’s guidance for NYT Connections on Aug. 22, 2026 focuses on word meanings rather than giving answers outright. The article explains that the puzzle’s clues can involve words within words and visual hints, so recognizing definitions can help solve categories without spoilers. It lists “bitter” as a sharp, potentially unpleasant taste; “spice” as substances used to add flavor; “mean” as unkind; “winter” as the coldest season; and “hammer” as a tool for driving nails. Other provided definitions include “cone,” “plane” (a woodworking shaving tool), “jet,” “golden,” “saw,” “mist,” “musk,” “Gilmore,” “chisel,” and “water.” It also references “shower” and encourages readers to check hints and answers elsewhere.