
Strands presents an engaging challenge, featuring a vast grid filled with letters that conceal a series of themed words. Today’s puzzle contains seven hidden words that revolve around a common theme, but the clues provided by the NYT leave the specifics up to the players to uncover.
If you’re seeking assistance with the Strands puzzle and are already familiar with its rules, you’ll find hints and solutions included below. This article is packed with various hints, ranging from general tips to complete answers.
The NYT Games Strands Puzzle #321 – January 18, 2025

The clue for today’s Strands puzzle is O ___! My ____! Your mission includes discovering seven words hidden within, which comprise a Spangram alongside six themed words.
New York Times Games Strands Clues
If you prefer to solve the puzzle without revealing the answers directly, several spoiler-free hints are available to guide you toward the theme of this intriguing puzzle game.
General Hint 1

Hint 1: Oh, Leader!
General Hint 2

Hint 2: A line in a Walt Whitman poem.
General Hint 3

Hint 3: Kirk or Picard?
Spoilers for Two of the Words in Today’s Strands
If you’re in need of some specific spoilers, check out the following sections that reveal two of the words featured in today’s puzzle, complete with visual placement in the grid.
Spoiler 1

Word 1: Hook

Spoiler 2

Word 2: Underpants

The Answer to Today’s New York Times Games Strands
The full resolution to this captivating puzzle can be found in the section below.

Today’s category is Captain. The hidden words include Hook, Underwear, Kangaroo, Planet, Crunch, and Obvious.

Today’s Strands Explained
For those unfamiliar with this free puzzle game reminiscent of Wordle, an explanation is available below. The puzzle encompasses a combination of themed words, a Spangram, and how all elements are interwoven.

The clue O ___! My ____! references the renowned line “O Captain! My Captain!” from Walt Whitman’s poem honoring Abraham Lincoln. Accordingly, all the themed words represent various famous captains.
Ready to take on the challenge?
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