NYT Connections Hint - December 4, 2025

Hello, wordsmiths! It’s that delightful time of day again—let’s dive into our Connections game! 🌟 Today, we’re exploring some cozy cuddles, imaginative assemblies, and even some furry friends. I felt like a puzzle master today, even though a few words had me scratching my head. Let’s unravel this together!

Word Explanations

• DRAW CLOSE

  • This phrase evokes a sense of warmth and connection, bringing to mind the sweet act of bringing someone or something closer to you. It’s that heartwarming moment when you wrap your arms around someone you care about. I just love using this when saying goodbye to friends at the end of a lovely gathering. 💖

• PUZZLE

  • Ah, the puzzle! Not just a fun game, but a mental workout! It represents countless lost hours of my life, piecing together images of cats or landscapes. Did you know that puzzles can actually help with memory and problem-solving skills? Always fun to keep the brain sharp! 🧠

• ROSTRUM

  • Rostrum refers to a beak or similar part of an animal. It brings to mind those unforgettable animal documentaries where the snouts of creatures are highlighted. It sounds fancy, doesn’t it? Makes for more sophisticated conversation at dinner parties! 🦙

• NUZZLE

  • Nuzzling is one of those adorable behaviors that instantly brings a smile to my face. It’s that gentle rubbing of your nose against someone or something. My cat does this all the time—pure love! It’s a delightful reminder to slow down and enjoy the moments. And hey, it’s one of my favorite ways to show affection! 🐱

• GUZZLE

  • To guzzle is to drink quickly and greedily. Honestly, I have guzzled down my fair share of ice-cold lemonade on hot summer days—who hasn’t? It brings to mind that refreshing rush, and hey, a good guzzle can really hit the spot after a workout! 🍹

• IKEA FURNITURE

  • IKEA furniture has earned its fame for being both stylish and a bit of a challenge to put together! Remember that hilarious moment when you have way too many screws left over? 😂 It's a staple in so many homes, filled with so much potential once the assembly is complete. I always have a sense of accomplishment once my DIY project is up and running! 🛠️

• MUZZLE

  • Muzzle brings to mind the adorable, yet sometimes mischievous, look on my dog’s face when she’s forbidden to touch her treats. It refers to the snout of a dog or other animal, covering that playful yet curious spirit. It’s also a reminder that sometimes we have to rein in our playful sides—at least a little! 🐶

• LEGO SET

  • LEGO sets are pure joy and creativity bottled into plastic blocks! From castles to spaceships, they enable us to construct whole worlds. Spending a rainy afternoon building with them brings back memories of my childhood, when every little brick seemed like pure magic. Did I mention I still have my childhood LEGO collection intact? 😉

• HOLD TIGHT

  • HOLD TIGHT feels like a warm embrace, a phrase I often say to friends when they’re embarking on a journey. It's all about supporting someone—whether it’s literally holding on during a scary rollercoaster ride or offering emotional support during tough times. I cherish those moments of closeness! 🤗

• KNOCK BACK

  • To 'knock back' is often used when referring to drinking, and usually means doing it quickly! Reminds me of those fun evenings with friends where we’d share a laugh and enjoy delicious cocktails. It also has that party energy—just the right word to get the fun started! 🎉🥂

• MODEL

  • MODEL refers to something designed to represent another thing, showcasing creativity and skill. I admire people who can model intricate designs with grace—such an art! It reminds me of those art classes I took back in school. Ah, the nostalgia! 🎨

• SPOON

  • Spoon—such a simple, yet comforting word! It brings to mind cozy moments with a warm bowl of soup, or spooning with someone in bed. I also think of its significance as a utensil that makes our meals infinitely easier. Who could live without it? 🍲

• SWILL

  • SWILL brings to mind that rushed feeling of drinking something down without savoring it. Kind of like those mornings when coffee is essential to just wake up! It’s not quite refined, but hey, we all have those moments where the drink is just necessary! ☕

• BEAK

  • BEAK is such a vibrant word that rings of nature. It reminds me of watching birds peck around the park, exploring the world energetically. It’s such a distinctive feature in so many species, isn't it? Sometimes, I think of it as nature's little tool for survival. 🦜

• POUND DOWN

  • POUND DOWN is a great phrase that involves drinking quickly. It brings to mind moments of celebration where we raise a glass in cheers! There’s something so joyful about the clink of glasses when sharing good times with friends—really makes the heart happy! 🥳

• PROBOSCIS

  • PROBOSCIS refers to that wonderful elongation, like the delicate, outrageous snouts of certain animals, think elephants or butterflies! It’s fascinating how nature has its quirky designs. I’m always intrigued by such aspects of animals in documentaries—it brings a smile to my face! 🐘

Theme Hints

1. CUDDLE

   • Think about all the ways you can physically connect with those you love—these words make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside! 😊

2. THINGS YOU ASSEMBLE

   • What do you like putting together for fun? These four words represent the creativity and challenge of assembly—without the missing screws! 🔧

3. IMBIBE

   • What do you do at a party when the drinks flow freely? Look for four fun ways to enjoy your beverages!

4. SNOUTS

   • Look for words related to furry or feathery friends! These characters are all about that snout game—can you guess them?

Answers Explanation

Today was full of cozy cuddles and fun puzzles! 🧩 I loved how each category brought back little memories—like building IKEA furniture with friends and snuggling with my pets. Can’t wait to tackle more tomorrow!