PREVIOUS CONNECTIONS DEFINITIONS
Plain-English meanings for all 16 words from the August 24, 2026 NYT Connections puzzle. No hints, categories or answers.
The underside of a foot or a shoe.
A type of flatfish found in European waters.
Being the only one; single or exclusive.
The bottom part of a tool or object that rests on a surface.
The term can refer to body parts, animals, footwear components, or describe exclusivity.
To have earned or be worthy of something because of actions, qualities, or situation.
To be entitled to receive something as a right or due.
To merit a particular treatment or outcome based on behavior or circumstances.
The term is commonly used in everyday language to express fairness or justice regarding rewards or consequences.
The chief or most important part, element, or component of something.
A principal pipe or conduit for carrying water, gas, or electricity.
A main course or dish in a meal.
A large sail on a sailing ship, typically the largest one.
Can be used as an adjective, noun, or verb; also appears in names, brands, and technical terms.
A small hole or ring, often reinforced with metal, used for threading a cord or lace through fabric or other materials.
A small decorative perforation in paper or leather.
A tiny opening in a plant leaf or petal.
A small ring-shaped component in mechanical devices for guiding cables or wires.
The term can refer to a physical object in sewing, decoration, botany, or mechanics.
The back part of the foot below the ankle.
The back part of a shoe that supports the heel of the foot.
A person who behaves dishonorably or untrustworthily.
To follow closely at someone's heels, especially a dog walking obediently beside its owner.
The term can refer to anatomy, footwear, behavior, or actions and may also be used as a name or slang.
A number greater than 1 that has no positive divisors other than 1 and itself.
Of the highest quality or importance; main or best.
To prepare something or someone for use or action.
In grammar, a symbol (′) used to indicate feet, minutes, or derivatives.
The term can also be used as a name, brand, or in various technical contexts.
A person who was formerly in a romantic relationship with someone.
A feeling of affection that has ended or faded.
A term used to describe past romantic experiences or memories.
The term is often used informally to refer to previous romantic partners.
A curved structure that spans an opening and supports weight above it, commonly used in architecture and bridges.
A shape resembling a bow or rainbow, often curved and rounded.
To bend or curve something into the shape of an arch.
A person who is very skilled or principal in a particular activity, often used as a prefix (e.g., archrival).
The term can refer to architectural elements, shapes, actions, or be used figuratively as a prefix or title.
A hairstyle featuring short hair on the front and sides and long hair at the back.
A type of freshwater or marine fish belonging to the family Mugilidae.
Slang term for a person who has a mullet hairstyle.
The term can refer to a hairstyle, a type of fish, or be used as slang.
The portrayal of staged events within professional wrestling as real or true.
A term used to describe maintaining the illusion of reality in scripted entertainment.
Slang for any situation where the truth is deliberately concealed to preserve a narrative.
Sometimes used to refer to the behind-the-scenes reality versus the public story in wrestling.
Often used in professional wrestling contexts, but can also apply to other scripted or staged scenarios.
To surround or attack on all sides; to trouble or threaten persistently.
To cause persistent difficulties or distress to someone.
To be covered or studded with something, such as jewels or decorations.
The term 'beset' can be used as a verb in various contexts, including literal and figurative situations.
A long spear formerly used by infantry soldiers.
A type of freshwater fish known for its sharp teeth.
A toll road or turnpike.
Slang for a sudden departure or escape.
The term can refer to objects, animals, roads, or slang depending on context.
The front part of a person's head, including the eyes, nose, and mouth.
The surface of an object, such as a clock face or a building face.
To confront or deal with a difficult situation or person.
The expression on a person's face showing emotion.
The term can refer to anatomy, surfaces, actions, or expressions.
A projecting part of a tool or blade that fits into a handle for secure attachment.
A type of strong citrus-flavored drink mix.
A sharp, distinctive taste or flavor.
A marine fish known for its bright colors, also called surgeonfish.
The term can refer to parts of tools, beverages, flavors, or fish species.
A leader or person in charge of a group, organization, or tribe.
A high-ranking officer in the military or police.
A title for a person with authority in certain professions, such as chief engineer or chief executive.
A decorative cloth worn on the head or around the neck, also known as a chief's scarf.
The term can be used as a title, rank, or informal form of address.
A person or company that buys goods in bulk from manufacturers and sells them to retailers or other businesses.
A worker who performs small or routine tasks, often temporarily or casually.
In professional wrestling, a competitor who consistently loses to make others look stronger.
A type of printing press used for short-run jobs.
The term can be used in business, sports, and printing contexts, and may also appear as a surname or brand name.