PREVIOUS CONNECTIONS DEFINITIONS
Plain-English meanings for all 16 words from the September 25, 2026 NYT Connections puzzle. No hints, categories or answers.
Used to indicate a preference for one thing over another.
Used to express a degree or extent, meaning 'somewhat' or 'fairly'.
Used to correct or modify a previous statement.
Used to introduce a contrasting idea or alternative.
Can function as an adverb or conjunction in different contexts.
A slang term derived from 'bourgeois,' used to describe someone who is perceived as pretentious, materialistic, or aspiring to a higher social class.
A type of medical instrument used to dilate or explore bodily passages, especially in urology or gastroenterology.
Short for 'bougie,' a candle made of wax, often used in religious or decorative contexts.
The term 'bougie' is commonly used in informal speech and can refer to social attitudes, medical tools, or candles depending on context.
A person with exceptional intellectual or creative ability.
An exceptional natural ability or talent in a particular area.
A person who invents or creates something innovative.
A term used to describe something extremely clever or effective.
The term can be used as a compliment, a brand name, or slang for someone very skilled.
The season of the year between winter and summer, characterized by warmer weather and the blossoming of plants.
A coil or elastic device that returns to its original shape after being compressed or stretched.
A natural source of water flowing from the ground.
To move or jump suddenly or rapidly upward or forward.
The term can refer to a season, mechanical device, natural water source, or an action.
A line or boundary that separates two areas, such as countries or regions.
The edge or margin of something, like a piece of fabric or a page.
To be adjacent to or share a boundary with another area.
A decorative strip around the edge of an object or surface.
The term can refer to physical boundaries, decorative elements, or be used as a verb meaning to be next to something.
A mechanical device consisting of a toothed wheel or bar that allows motion in one direction only, commonly used to tighten or loosen bolts or screws.
A slang term describing someone or something as uncouth, aggressive, or lacking refinement.
A tool used in automotive or machinery work to apply torque incrementally.
A term in finance referring to a clause that adjusts the value or terms based on certain conditions.
The term can be used as a mechanical tool name, slang, or in specialized contexts like finance.
To display wealth, style, or confidence in a way that attracts attention.
A style or manner that is flashy or ostentatious.
An event or place characterized by luxury and elegance.
To move or behave in a confident, showy way.
Can be used as a verb or noun; sometimes used as a brand name or slang for stylishness.
A person or behavior that is fierce, wild, or uncontrolled.
An adjective describing something extremely harsh or severe.
Slang for someone who is bold, ruthless, or impressive in a daring way.
An outdated and offensive term historically used to describe indigenous peoples as uncivilized.
The term can be used as an adjective or noun and may appear in slang, formal, or historical contexts.
Having a stylish and sophisticated appearance or manner.
Elegant or high-quality in design or behavior.
Refined and socially distinguished.
Informal term for someone or something admirable or impressive.
Often used as an adjective to describe people, clothing, events, or behavior.
An amount of money that a government or authority imposes as a tax, fee, or fine.
To impose or collect a tax, fee, or fine.
To enlist or conscript troops for military service.
To seize property by legal authority to satisfy a debt or judgment.
The term can be used as a noun or a verb and may appear in legal, financial, or military contexts.
A weight suspended from a pivot so it can swing freely, often used to regulate clocks.
A device that swings back and forth to demonstrate periodic motion in physics.
A metaphor for something that swings between two extremes or opinions.
A type of divining tool used in spiritual or paranormal practices.
The term can refer to physical devices, metaphorical concepts, or tools in various fields.
Elaborate or decorative in style or appearance.
To feel a liking or desire for something or someone.
Imaginative or whimsical rather than practical.
To have a high opinion of oneself or something.
Can be used as an adjective, verb, or noun; also appears in brand names and informal expressions.
A mechanism in clocks and watches that controls the release of energy to regulate timekeeping.
A device in firearms that controls the movement of the firing mechanism.
A mechanical component in typewriters that advances the carriage.
A term in horology referring to the interaction between the escape wheel and the pallet fork.
Primarily used in horology and mechanical contexts.
Elegant, fashionable, or luxurious in style or manner.
An acronym for 'Port Out, Starboard Home,' referring to preferred cabin locations on ships.
Slang term meaning sophisticated or upper-class.
A brand name or label used by various companies.
POSH can be used as an adjective, acronym, slang term, or brand name depending on context.
A blend of 'family' and 'foam,' referring to a group of people who share a close bond like family, often used in online communities or fandoms.
A brand name for foam-based products such as mattresses or cushions.
Slang for a foam party or event involving foam and socializing.
An abbreviation for a foam-related chemical compound used in manufacturing.
The term can be used as a brand name, slang, or in informal contexts related to social groups or products.
A surname of English origin.
A brand name or company name.
A character name in fiction.
An uncommon given name.
AYKROYD is primarily used as a surname but can also appear as a brand, character name, or less commonly as a given name.