For countless word puzzle enthusiasts in India and across the globe, the New York Times Strands game has become a cherished part of their daily routine. The edition for December 26, 2025, puzzle number 663, offers a clever and timely challenge that perfectly captures the post-Christmas mood.
Decoding the "Please Hold" Theme
The puzzle presented players with the theme clue "Please hold". This subtle hint was designed to steer solvers toward words connected to items one might carry, use, or handle in the days immediately following Christmas, particularly on Boxing Day. The challenge involves finding a set of themed words and one crucial spangram that acts as the backbone of the entire grid, tying all the answers together.
Guided Hints for the December 26 Strands
If you found yourself stuck, the right approach was to think deeply about the day after Christmas. Consider the common objects and activities that define the slower pace of Boxing Day. The puzzle design offered additional clues through letter patterns. Words beginning with sequences like GI, BO, SH, PI, or TA served as helpful stepping stones. Savvy solvers also paid attention to clusters of repeated letters, especially near the corners of the grid, where shorter words were often hidden.
The Key Spangram and Full Solution Revealed
The breakthrough moment in any Strands puzzle comes with discovering the spangram. For the December 26, 2025 challenge, the essential spangram was BOXING DAY. This term stretched across the grid, immediately anchoring the puzzle's theme and making the related words much easier to spot.
Once the spangram was in place, the full list of theme words for puzzle 663 became clear:
- GIFT
- MATCH
- SHOE
- LUNCH
- TACKLE
- TOOL
- BALLOT
- BOXING DAY (Spangram)
Each of these words connects to the essence of Boxing Day. Some, like GIFT and SHOE, represent physical items that might be exchanged or shopped for. Others, like TACKLE, TOOL, and BALLOT, hint at tasks, activities, or even sporting events associated with the date. LUNCH and MATCH perfectly encapsulate the social and leisurely aspects of the day.
Expert Tips for Mastering Strands Puzzles
Regular players know that a strategic approach is key. Always start by hunting for the spangram, as it defines the puzzle's core idea and layout. Scan for tight letter formations and repeated characters, which often conceal smaller words. Let the theme clue guide your thinking persistently, and don't hesitate to revisit different sections of the grid if you feel blocked. Moving methodically often reveals connections that were missed in a first pass.
Whether you solved it alone or needed a little help, the December 26 Strands successfully encapsulated the familiar rituals and relaxed vibe of Boxing Day through its well-chosen vocabulary. The puzzle continues to be a brilliant daily exercise for the mind, blending language skills with cultural relevance.
