NYT Connections Hints for December 28, 2025 (#972)
Game
DUSKY
SPRING
STILL
PERRIER
BOX
STATIONARY
GEAR
ENVELOPE
NOODLE
RATCHET
TUBE
STATIC
PAWL
CONSTANT
SOXER
MAILER
Hints by Category
CONTAINERS FOR SHIPPING
Back to CategoriesPackaging materials used for transporting items
BOX
A rigid container with sides, typically rectangular, used for shipping various items.
ENVELOPE
A flat paper container, usually with a sealable flap, used for mailing letters and documents.
MAILER
A protective shipping container, often padded or reinforced, designed specifically for mailing fragile items.
TUBE
A cylindrical container, often made of cardboard or plastic, used for shipping posters, documents, or rolled items.
UNMOVING
Back to CategoriesStates of being stationary or unchanging
CONSTANT
Remaining the same over time; unchanging.
STATIC
Lacking movement, change, or development; stationary.
STATIONARY
Not moving or not intended to be moved; fixed in one place.
STILL
Not moving; motionless.
MECHANICAL WATCH PARTS
Back to CategoriesComponents found in traditional mechanical timepieces
GEAR
A toothed wheel that meshes with another toothed part to transmit motion in a watch mechanism.
PAWL
A pivoted lever or catch that engages with the teeth of a ratchet wheel to prevent backward movement.
RATCHET
A device consisting of a wheel or bar with angled teeth, allowing motion in only one direction.
SPRING
Typically refers to the mainspring - a coiled spring that stores energy to power the watch movement.
DOGS WITH FIRST LETTER CHANGED
Back to CategoriesWords created by changing the first letter of common dog breeds or dog-related terms
DUSKY
From 'Husky' (changing H to D) - refers to dim or shadowy light.
NOODLE
From 'Poodle' (changing P to N) - a type of pasta or informal term for head.
PERRIER
From 'Terrier' (changing T to P) - a brand of sparkling mineral water.
SOXER
From 'Boxer' (changing B to S) - likely a playful term, possibly referring to someone who wears socks or a baseball player.