Answer key | August 6, 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.
CASHIER / PHONE / BELL / ALARM
CASHIER, PHONE, BELL, and ALARM all fit the category "Things that ring". Each can make a ringing sound. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
TIMER / CLOCK / HOURGLASS / WATCH
TIMER, CLOCK, HOURGLASS, and WATCH all fit the category "Timekeepers". They help measure time. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
BENCH / ROPE / KETTLEBELL / MAT
BENCH, ROPE, KETTLEBELL, and MAT all fit the category "Things in a gym". Training rooms are their habitat. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
RAPIDS / BANK / CURRENT / DELTA
RAPIDS, BANK, CURRENT, and DELTA all fit the category "River words". Fresh water flows through this set. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.