If today’s New York Times Strands puzzle has you scratching your head, you’re not alone. The theme centers on human anatomy-specifically parts of the ear-and several answers are tough to unscramble.
At a Glance
- The Jan. 15, 2026 Strands theme is “The ears have it!”
- Seven theme answers plus a spangram must be found
- Clue words like CARB, HEAL, and HEAR unlock in-game hints
- Why it matters: A single tricky term can block completion of the entire grid
Theme and Clue
Today’s theme, “The ears have it!”, points players toward auditory anatomy. A secondary clue-“Can you hear me now?”-reinforces the focus on hearing-related structures.
Unlocking Hints
Strands awards hints when you find any three words of four letters or more. The words below triggered hints during Daniel J. Whitman‘s solve, but any qualifying words you spot will work:
- CARB
- CART
- CAPS
- SCAR
- DUEL
- LANE
- HEAL
- HEALER
- MAIN
- HEAR
- SEAR
- PART
Answers for Jan. 15, 2026
These theme entries all relate to ear anatomy. Every letter in the grid is used once they-and the spangram-are found:
- DRUM
- LOBE
- ANVIL
- CANAL
- HAMMER
- STIRRUP
- CARTILAGE
Spangram Solution
The puzzle’s spangram-a single word stretching from one edge of the board to the other-is HEARHEAR. Start with the leftmost H in the top row and wind downward to spell it.
Tough Puzzles to Remember
News Of Los Angeles ranks these past Strands among the hardest:
- Dated slang – PHAT stumped many solvers
- Thar she blows! – Marine terms like BALEEN or RIGHT proved elusive
- Off the hook – Sea-creature knowledge was required for BIGEYE or SKIPJACK
Keep these tricky themes in mind the next time the grid feels impossible.
