Answer key | October 8, 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.
HOSE / TROWEL / SPADE / RAKE
HOSE, TROWEL, SPADE, and RAKE all fit the category "Garden tools". These live in a shed. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
FLOUR / SUGAR / YEAST / BUTTER
FLOUR, SUGAR, YEAST, and BUTTER all fit the category "Baking staples". A bakery keeps these close. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
FOG / HAIL / DRIZZLE / SQUALL
FOG, HAIL, DRIZZLE, and SQUALL all fit the category "Weather events". Forecasts warn you about these. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.
SOAP / MUSIC / CHOCOLATE / SIGNAL
SOAP, MUSIC, CHOCOLATE, and SIGNAL all fit the category "Things with bars". Bars can describe each answer. The shared link accounts for all four words, which is why the remaining board words should be tested against a different rule.