The daily NYT Strands puzzle challenges players to find hidden words within a grid, with a focus on a specific theme. This article focuses on the August 23, 2025, edition. The theme for today’s Strands puzzle is “Rub it in, why don’t you?” and requires players to discover words related to the Spangram, which is “Moisturizers.” To assist players, the article provides hints, such as describing the answers with clues. Examples include: “A soothing ointment or salve used for healing or comfort,” which leads to BALM. Similarly, “A thick dairy product, or a smooth lotion used for skin care” gives CREAM. Furthermore, the article lists the answers for the puzzle: BALM, CREAM, LOTION, BUTTER, JELLY, SALVE, and SERUM. Strands, a relatively recent addition to the NYT’s puzzle lineup, is a combination of games like Connections, Spelling Bee, and classic crossword puzzles. Players use the grid to uncover words, revealing the theme in the Spangram.
