PREVIOUS CONNECTIONS DEFINITIONS
Plain-English meanings for all 16 words from the August 25, 2026 NYT Connections puzzle. No hints, categories or answers.
Existing or occurring at or on the surface; not deep or thorough.
Concerned only with what is obvious or apparent; shallow.
Of little substance or significance; trivial.
The term can describe physical characteristics, personality traits, or the depth of analysis.
A theoretical space or dimension that allows faster-than-light travel between two points in the universe.
A fictional or speculative concept used in science fiction stories.
A metaphor for a complex or highly connected digital network.
An advanced mode or setting in certain video games or software indicating high speed or enhanced performance.
The term is commonly used in science fiction and technology contexts and can also appear as a brand name or slang.
A dance style and internet meme that became popular in 2013, featuring a group of people dancing wildly to the song 'Harlem Shake' by Baauer.
A song by Baauer released in 2012 that inspired the dance meme.
A type of energetic dance move originating from Harlem, New York.
The term can refer to the dance, the song, or the viral video trend.
Very quickly; at great speed.
Used to describe something done immediately or without delay.
An informal way to say 'right away' or 'in a flash'.
Informal adverb often used in casual speech to indicate rapid action.
A person who is jogging or moving quickly on foot as a form of exercise or transportation.
A dance move characterized by a repeated stepping motion that simulates running in place.
The title of a popular South Korean variety show featuring games and challenges.
A character or figure depicted as running in logos or signage to indicate emergency exits or routes.
The term can refer to physical activity, entertainment media, dance, or symbolic imagery depending on context.
A brightly colored, usually orange, cone-shaped marker used to redirect or control vehicle and pedestrian traffic.
A small, cone-shaped object used in sports training to mark boundaries or courses.
A decorative item shaped like a traffic cone, used in art or design.
The term primarily refers to a road safety device but can also be used metaphorically or in other contexts.
A hypothetical or fictional distortion of time, often involving traveling to the past or future.
A sudden or unexpected change in the perception of time.
A dance move popularized in the musical 'The Rocky Horror Picture Show'.
A term used in computing to describe a system clock error or adjustment.
The term can be used in science fiction, entertainment, and technical contexts.
A journey taken on foot over a considerable distance.
A leisurely stroll for exercise or relaxation.
A historical or cultural event involving a significant foot journey.
A metaphor for a difficult or challenging experience.
The term can refer to literal walking, symbolic journeys, or specific named events.
Having only one dimension, such as length, without width or depth.
Describing a character or idea that is simple and lacks complexity or depth.
Relating to a single aspect or perspective, ignoring others.
The term can be used in scientific, mathematical, or figurative contexts.
A hypothetical or fictional self-contained reality coexisting with one's own universe.
A concept in physics suggesting multiple universes exist simultaneously with different outcomes.
A setting in science fiction where events or histories differ from the known world.
The term is often used in science fiction, philosophy, and theoretical physics.
A term originally referring to the death row corridor in a prison where inmates walk to their execution.
The title of a popular 1999 novel and 1999 film about a death row prison guard and an inmate with supernatural abilities.
A metaphor for a difficult or final journey or experience.
The term can be used literally, as a title, or metaphorically in various contexts.
Confidential or exclusive information about a situation or event.
A detailed report or update from someone with direct knowledge.
Informal term for gossip or insider news.
A type of news segment focusing on behind-the-scenes details.
Often used informally to refer to privileged or secret information.
Relating to products or treatments intended to improve or alter the appearance of the body, especially the face.
Superficial or minor, affecting only appearance rather than substance.
A product used to enhance or alter the appearance, such as makeup.
The term can refer to products, procedures, or changes related to appearance and is also used metaphorically to describe superficial changes.
A 1994 American drama film about hope and friendship set in a prison.
A phrase symbolizing personal transformation and liberation.
A metaphor for overcoming difficult circumstances.
The term is primarily known as a film title but can be used metaphorically in various contexts.
The hypothetical or fictional process of moving instantly from one place to another without physically traveling the distance in between.
The transfer of information or data instantly across a network.
In quantum physics, the transmission of quantum states between particles over a distance without moving the particles themselves.
The term is commonly used in science fiction and theoretical physics contexts.
Existing or appearing only on the surface; superficial.
Relating to or affecting only the outer layer of the skin.
Used to describe something that is shallow or lacking depth in character or quality.
Often used as an adjective or adverb to describe appearances or qualities that do not go beyond the surface.