NYT Connections Hints for January 1, 2026 (#989)
Game
SHUCK
SCOTCH
HEAD
RAT
CURSE
SKIN
NUT
FLY
HOUND
FINGERS
SPELL
SHELL
CHARM
BUFF
PEEL
HEX
Hints by Category
BIT OF MAGIC
Back to CategoriesMagical Incantations or Supernatural Influences
CHARM
A magical spell or object believed to bring good luck or protection.
CURSE
A magical spell or utterance intended to bring harm or misfortune.
HEX
A magical spell or curse, often associated with witchcraft.
SPELL
A set of words or formula used in magic to produce a specific effect.
REMOVE THE COVERING FROM
Back to CategoriesActions of Removing Outer Layers or Shells
PEEL
To remove the outer skin or covering from fruits or vegetables.
SHELL
To remove the hard outer covering from nuts, eggs, or seafood.
SHUCK
To remove the outer covering from corn, oysters, or nuts.
SKIN
To remove the skin from animals, fruits, or vegetables.
"ENTHUSIAST" EQUIVALENT
Back to CategoriesInformal Terms for Enthusiasts or Devotees
BUFF
A person who is very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about a particular subject.
HEAD
A devoted fan or enthusiast, often used in compound words like 'metalhead' or 'deadhead'.
HOUND
A person who is very keen on something, often used in compound words like 'newshound' or 'coffee hound'.
RAT
A person who frequents a particular place or activity, often used in compound words like 'gym rat' or 'mall rat'.
BUTTER___
Back to CategoriesCompound Words or Phrases Beginning with 'Butter'
FINGERS
'Butterfingers' - a person who drops things easily or is clumsy.
FLY
'Butterfly' - an insect with colorful wings, or a swimming stroke.
NUT
'Butternut' - a type of squash or a tree producing edible nuts.
SCOTCH
'Butterscotch' - a type of candy or flavoring made from butter and brown sugar.