Answer key | May 26, 2026
The full solution is below, with a short explanation for each group. To avoid spoilers, play the puzzle or open the hints page before reading the answer panels.
LIME / PEA / FERN / MOSS
LIME, PEA, FERN, and MOSS all fit the category "Green things". They commonly show up in green. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
WATCH / TREE / TOOTH / KING
WATCH, TREE, TOOTH, and KING all fit the category "Things with crowns". A crown can sit on each of these. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
PRODUCER / EDITOR / GAFFER / DIRECTOR
PRODUCER, EDITOR, GAFFER, and DIRECTOR all fit the category "Film crew roles". They appear in movie credits. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
TULIP / ALGAE / ROSE / FIREWORK
TULIP, ALGAE, ROSE, and FIREWORK all fit the category "Things that bloom". Each can bloom in its own way. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.