PREVIOUS CONNECTIONS DEFINITIONS
Plain-English meanings for all 16 words from the August 9, 2026 NYT Connections puzzle. No hints, categories or answers.
To change from one gear to another in a vehicle to adjust speed or power.
To change one's approach or strategy in a situation.
To move quickly or abruptly from one activity or state to another.
The term can be used literally in driving or figuratively in everyday language.
The legal obligation to serve as a member of a jury in a court trial when summoned.
The period during which a person is actively serving on a jury.
A civic responsibility required of eligible citizens in some countries.
The term refers specifically to the duty of citizens to participate in the judicial process as jurors.
A genre of science fiction characterized by adventurous, dramatic stories set in outer space, often involving space travel, futuristic technology, and epic battles.
A style of music or performance inspired by science fiction themes and space imagery.
A term used humorously to describe overly dramatic or exaggerated stories about space.
A type of role-playing game or video game set in a science fiction universe.
The term is primarily used in literature and entertainment but can also appear in informal contexts or as a metaphor.
A complex network of winding passages or paths, often designed as a maze.
A complicated or confusing situation or system.
An intricate structure or arrangement that is difficult to navigate.
The term can refer to physical mazes, metaphorical situations, or elaborate designs.
A children's book about a peddler who sells colorful caps and learns lessons about sharing and honesty.
A phrase describing the act of selling caps or hats.
An informal expression for promoting or advertising caps.
A name of a game or activity involving selling caps.
The term is primarily known as the title of a children's book but can also be used in other contexts related to selling or promoting caps.
A physical adventure game in which players solve puzzles and complete tasks within a set time to exit a locked room or series of rooms.
A virtual or online game simulating the experience of a physical escape room.
A metaphor for a situation or method used to avoid or get out of a difficult circumstance.
The term is commonly used to describe both real-life and digital puzzle games, and can also be used figuratively.
A modern style of film or literature that updates the themes and visual elements of classic film noir, often featuring crime, moral ambiguity, and dark, moody aesthetics.
A genre blending traditional noir elements with contemporary settings and issues.
A style characterized by cynical heroes, stark lighting contrasts, and complex narratives in recent media.
A term used to describe neo-noir video games or graphic novels that emulate noir themes.
Neo-noir is primarily used to describe a genre or style in film, literature, and other media.
To make a change in direction or approach to improve the outcome or stay on track.
To adjust a plan or behavior after receiving feedback or new information.
To modify a strategy during a process to avoid mistakes or problems.
Often used in navigation, project management, and personal development contexts.
A frightening or unpleasant dream that causes distress or fear upon waking.
A metaphor for a troubling or difficult experience in real life.
A term used to describe a situation that feels surreal and negative.
A phrase used in storytelling to depict a character's inner fears or anxieties.
The term is commonly used in everyday language to describe nightmares and can also appear in literature and media.
A genre of film or television featuring two police officers with contrasting personalities who work together to solve crimes.
A pair of friends or partners who collaborate closely, especially in challenging situations.
Informal term for a police officer assigned to work closely with another officer for support and safety.
The term is primarily used in entertainment contexts but can also refer to real-life police partnerships or close working relationships.
A durable fabric with a distinct pattern of raised parallel ridges or 'wales,' typically made from cotton or a cotton blend.
A type of pants or clothing made from corduroy fabric.
A texture or pattern resembling the ridged appearance of corduroy fabric.
Corduroy primarily refers to a fabric but can also describe clothing made from it or the characteristic ridged pattern.
To alter one's course or approach, especially in sailing or in a figurative sense of changing strategy or direction.
A sailing maneuver involving turning the bow of the boat through the wind to change direction.
A phrase used metaphorically to indicate shifting plans or opinions.
An idiomatic expression meaning to switch tactics or methods.
The term is commonly used in nautical contexts but also appears in everyday language to describe changing plans or strategies.
A female given name of French origin.
A type of small, shell-shaped sponge cake from France.
A character name in various books, films, or television shows.
Madeline is primarily used as a personal name but can also refer to a specific pastry or fictional characters.
To adjust or fine-tune a device or system to ensure accuracy or proper functioning.
To rethink or revise a plan, approach, or attitude.
To reset or modify standards or expectations.
The term can be used in technical contexts as well as metaphorically in everyday language.
A genre of Western films produced and directed by Italians, typically characterized by stylized violence and morally ambiguous characters.
A type of pasta dish inspired by Western themes.
A nickname for Western movies with exaggerated or humorous elements.
A slang term for a messy or complicated situation, referencing tangled spaghetti.
The term primarily refers to a film genre but can also be used metaphorically or colloquially in different contexts.
A popular children's bedtime storybook written by Margaret Wise Brown, featuring a gentle, rhythmic text and soothing illustrations.
A phrase used to say 'goodnight' in a comforting or affectionate way.
The title of various songs, albums, or artistic works inspired by the book or the phrase.
A cultural reference symbolizing bedtime or the end of the day.
The term is primarily known as a book title but can also appear in music, casual speech, or as a cultural reference.