The thrill of conquering the daily word games from The New York Times, including Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword, and Connections Sports Edition all at once is unmatched. However, achieving this feat is not always easy. If you’re struggling with today’s Connections puzzle, read on for some assistance.
Spoiler alert! Proceed with caution if you’re looking for clues or need immediate answers. Here are all the hints and answers for today’s NYT Connections puzzle, #981 on Monday, February 16, 2026.
If you’re facing challenges with the connections or words in today’s puzzle, you’re not alone. The hints provided below should offer you some guidance. Additionally, the answers will be revealed further down the line.
Today’s NYT Connections puzzle for Monday, February 16, 2026 presents various categories to keep you engaged. Here are some hints to get you started:
1. Good joke!
2. They all sound like Homer Simpson.
3. Bwack-bwack!
4. Oh no! What now?
Ready to uncover the answers? Scroll past the image below symbolizing your patience.
Today’s Connections Game Answers for Monday, February 16:
1. KNEE SLAPPER: HOOT, LAUGH, RIOT, SCREAM
2. HOMOPHONES: DO, DOE, DOH, DOUGH
3. SOUNDS A CHICKEN MAKES: BUCK, CACKLE, CLUCK, SQUAWK
4. STRESS RESPONSES: FAWN, FIGHT, FLIGHT, FREEZE
How did you fare with the puzzle? Up next, explore more fun games like Connections to keep you entertained daily. And don’t forget to check out the hints, clues, and answers to the NYT’s Mini Crossword puzzle.
Missed a few days? Catch up on recent Connections answers.
Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues, and Answers for Sunday, February 15, 2026.
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.