NYT Strands Hint and Answer for February 21, 2026

Complete guide with hints, spangram, and all theme words for today's puzzle

Strands Theme of Feb 21 is:

The beer necessities

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Todays' Spangram Hint

This word describes the hobby of making your own beer at a residential location rather than a commercial brewery.

Reveal letter by letter or uncover a full solution

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Today's Strands Spangram

Strands Spangram for Feb 21
Today's spangram is:
HOMEBREW
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Hint for Today's Theme Words

Today's theme, "The beer necessities", is a clever play on words from the Jungle Book. It focuses on the fundamental ingredients and processes required to craft your own alcoholic beverage.

First three letters of each theme word:

BAR...
FLA...
HOP...
MAL...
SUG...
WAT...
WHE...
YEA...

Spoiler Warning

Strands answer for The beer necessities are revealed below!

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Answers for Strands Today

Below is the complete solution for Today's Strands.Enjoy the game!

Strands Hint for Feb 21

How to Play Strands

Objective:

Find all the hidden theme words and the spangram in the letter grid.

Rules:

  • • Words can be spelled in any direction (including diagonally)
  • • Letters can only be used once per word
  • • All letters must be used exactly once
  • • Theme words relate to the given clue
  • • The spangram spans from one side of the board to the opposite side

Tips:

  • • Start by looking for obvious theme-related words
  • • The spangram often contains or relates to the theme
  • • Use the hint button if you're stuck
  • • Pay attention to letter frequency and common word patterns

Scoring:

Find all theme words and the spangram to complete the puzzle. Use hints sparingly to maintain your streak!