PREVIOUS CONNECTIONS DEFINITIONS
Plain-English meanings for all 16 words from the July 21, 2026 NYT Connections puzzle. No hints, categories or answers.
The art or science of combining vocal or instrumental sounds to produce beauty of form, harmony, and expression of emotion.
A particular style or genre of musical composition or performance.
A written or printed representation of musical sounds.
Background sound or melody used in films, games, or other media.
The term can refer to an art form, a genre, a written score, or audio content in media.
A metric unit of mass equal to one thousandth of a kilogram.
An informal term for a gramophone record.
A social media platform focused on photo and video sharing (short for Instagram).
A slang term for a gram of a drug, especially marijuana.
The term can refer to a unit of measurement, a brand name, or slang depending on context.
A person who operates and controls a motor vehicle.
A software program that controls a specific hardware device in a computer.
A tool or device used to hit or propel something, such as a golf club or a screwdriver.
A factor or force that causes a particular result or change.
The term can refer to a person, software, tools, or abstract causes depending on context.
The ability to see; the sense through which light and images are perceived by the eyes.
A mental image or concept of a future possibility or goal.
An experience of seeing something supernatural or extraordinary.
The act or power of anticipating what will happen or be needed in the future.
The term can refer to physical sight, mental imagery, foresight, or spiritual experiences.
A long, hollow cylinder used to carry fluids, gases, or to protect wires.
A television set (informal).
A subway or underground train system, especially in London.
A container for holding substances like toothpaste or ointment.
The term can refer to physical objects, transportation systems, or informal slang.
The cultivated plants or agricultural produce grown and harvested on a farm.
To cut or trim the edges of a photograph or image.
A short hairstyle where the hair is cut very close to the scalp.
A type of whip used in horse riding or punishment.
The term can refer to agriculture, image editing, hairstyles, or objects, depending on context.
A set of printed or written pages bound together, typically forming a literary or informational work.
To arrange or reserve in advance, such as a hotel room or ticket.
To record or register information officially.
To summon someone to appear in court or police custody.
The term can refer to a physical object, an action, or a formal record, and is also used as a name or brand.
A software application designed to perform specific tasks on computers or mobile devices.
Short for 'appointment', referring to a scheduled meeting or event.
Abbreviation for 'approved', indicating official acceptance or authorization.
Slang for 'appearance', often used in informal contexts.
The term 'app' is commonly used in technology but can also appear as an abbreviation or slang in various contexts.
The act of arranging or coordinating various elements to achieve a desired effect, especially in music or complex projects.
The process of writing music for an orchestra, specifying which instruments play which parts.
In computing, the automated arrangement, coordination, and management of computer systems, middleware, and services.
The organization and management of multiple tasks or workflows to improve efficiency.
The term can be used in music, technology, business, and general contexts.
A part added to something to enlarge or prolong it.
A file suffix indicating the file type in computing.
A phone line connected to a main line within a building.
A hairpiece added to natural hair to increase length or volume.
The term can be used in various contexts including technology, telecommunications, and personal grooming.
A large container for holding liquids or gases.
A heavily armored combat vehicle with tracks.
To perform very poorly or fail completely, especially in sports or games.
To fill or store something in a tank.
The term can refer to vehicles, containers, or be used as slang in various contexts.
The movement of an organism or part of an organism in response to a stimulus, where the movement is non-directional.
A technology platform for real-time data streaming and processing by Amazon Web Services.
The process of muscle contraction and movement in biology.
A term used in physics to describe motion or movement.
Kinesis can refer to biological movement, a technology service, or general motion depending on context.
A device or person that provides cues or reminders to help someone speak or perform.
A person who encourages or urges someone to take action.
A machine used in theaters to display text for actors to read.
A person who initiates or provokes a response or action.
The term can refer to both a device and a person in various contexts, including theater, public speaking, and everyday conversation.
A type of strap or set of straps used to lead or tie up an animal, especially a horse.
A sleeveless top that fastens behind the neck, leaving the shoulders and back bare.
To stop or slow the progress of something, often used figuratively (e.g., to halt or pause).
The term can refer to clothing, animal equipment, or be used metaphorically in speech.
The words of a song, poem, or other musical composition.
A type of poetic expression focusing on personal emotions and thoughts.
Text displayed in karaoke or music videos to sing along with.
A brand name or title used in various media or products.
The term can refer to song words, poetry style, or be used as a name or brand.
A software component that adds a specific feature or functionality to an existing computer program.
A hardware device that can be connected to a system to extend its capabilities.
A connector or socket used to join electrical devices or cables.
A term used in audio production for an effect or instrument module that can be added to digital audio workstations.
The term can refer to software, hardware, or connectors and is commonly used in technology contexts.