Answer key | September 27, 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.
STONE / TENSION / FREIGHT / HEIGHT
STONE, TENSION, FREIGHT, and HEIGHT all fit the category "Hidden numbers". Each word hides a number sound or spelling. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
METEOR / VENUS / NEBULA / ORION
METEOR, VENUS, NEBULA, and ORION all fit the category "Night sky". Look up after sunset. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
KETTLEBELL / MAT / BENCH / ROPE
KETTLEBELL, MAT, BENCH, and ROPE 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.
LETTER / MAP / LAUNDRY / ORIGAMI
LETTER, MAP, LAUNDRY, and ORIGAMI all fit the category "Things you fold". A crease is part of the process. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.