Connections Hints: Feb 18, 2026
This page shows spoiler-layered hints for the NYT Connectionspuzzle published on Feb 18, 2026 (2026-02-18). Step through the hints in order and only reveal the full group breakdownwhen you're ready.
Meta: Puzzle #983
Connections #983 · 2026-02-18
Choose one group at a time
Each group has separate category and tile reveals. Open only the amount of help you want; the last reveal shows all available groups.
Group 1
Reveal category
RETRO HAIR DIRECTIVES
Reveal one tile
CRIMP
Reveal all four tiles
RETRO HAIR DIRECTIVES
- CRIMP
- CURL
- FEATHER
- TEASE
Group 2
Reveal category
RETRO SLANG FOR COOL
Reveal one tile
BAD
Reveal all four tiles
RETRO SLANG FOR COOL
- BAD
- FLY
- RAD
- WICKED
Group 3
Reveal category
CHICKEN DESCRIPTORS
Reveal one tile
BANTAM
Reveal all four tiles
CHICKEN DESCRIPTORS
- BANTAM
- CRESTED
- FREE-RANGE
- LEGHORN
Group 4
Reveal category
___ CREAM
Reveal one tile
HEAVY
Reveal all four tiles
___ CREAM
- HEAVY
- SHAVING
- SOUR
- TOPICAL
Reveal full answer
RETRO HAIR DIRECTIVES
- CRIMP
- CURL
- FEATHER
- TEASE
RETRO SLANG FOR COOL
- BAD
- FLY
- RAD
- WICKED
CHICKEN DESCRIPTORS
- BANTAM
- CRESTED
- FREE-RANGE
- LEGHORN
___ CREAM
- HEAVY
- SHAVING
- SOUR
- TOPICAL
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