Blue group — FAMOUS BRIDGES
Why is “RIALTO” in the Blue group?
a famous bridge in Venice, Italy, known for its ornate architecture
Connections Hints for January 20, 2026 #953
Pro tip: Tap each section to reveal answers one at a time. If you just need a gentle hint, get the connection hint for January 20, 2026 #953
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Yellow Category — January 20, 2026
Green Category — January 20, 2026
Blue Category — January 20, 2026
Purple Category — January 20, 2026
Tricky Words in Today's Connections
▼Definitions for the most unusual words in today's puzzle
Tricky Words in Today's Connections
▼Green group — KINDS OF BEES
Why is “CARPENTER” in the Green group?
a type of bee that bores into wood to make its nest
Word definitions
Tricky words in today's Connections (January 20, 2026)
Several words in today's puzzle have multiple meanings or obscure definitions that can throw you off. Here's what each one means in the context of this Connections grid.
- WANTON
- Definition: lacking in restraint or moderation
- Why it's tricky: has multiple meanings, including a type of Chinese noodle
- NEEDLE
- Definition: to annoy or provoke
- Why it's tricky: more commonly refers to a sewing tool
- DESIREE
- Definition: something longed for
- Why it's tricky: can also refer to a person's name or a type of potato
- CRAVEN
- Definition: feeling a strong desire
- Why it's tricky: can also mean cowardly or contemptible
Connections #953 explained
Why these words connect (January 20, 2026)
Understanding the logic behind each group helps you spot similar patterns in future puzzles. Here's the reasoning for every category in today's Connections.
Yellow group: INTERTWINE
These words are all related to the concept of intertwining or twisting, such as threads or fibers. They can be used to describe the act of combining or merging things together.
Green group: KINDS OF BEES
These words are all types of bees, including bumblebees, carpenter bees, honey bees, and killer bees. They are all related to the insect family Apidae.
Blue group: FAMOUS BRIDGES
These words are all names of famous bridges, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Golden Gate Bridge, Rialto Bridge, and Tower Bridge. They are all notable examples of engineering and architecture.
Purple group: STARTING WITH SYNONYMS FOR "HANKER FOR"
These words are all synonyms for the phrase 'hanker for', meaning to have a strong desire or craving for something. They can be used to describe a sense of longing or yearning.
Red herrings and trap words explained
These words were designed to mislead you. Understanding why they don't belong where you first think sharpens your game for tomorrow.
“TWIST”
Seems like it belongs to: KINDS OF BEES
Actually belongs to: INTERTWINE
while bees may twist and turn, the word 'twist' is more closely related to the concept of intertwining
“WIND”
Seems like it belongs to: FAMOUS BRIDGES
Actually belongs to: INTERTWINE
while wind can affect bridges, the word 'wind' is more closely related to the concept of intertwining threads or fibers
Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained
These words look like they belong in one group but actually fit somewhere else entirely.
Why “TWIST” didn't go with KINDS OF BEES
Seems like: KINDS OF BEES → Actually: INTERTWINE
while bees may twist and turn, the word 'twist' is more closely related to the concept of intertwining
Why “WIND” didn't go with FAMOUS BRIDGES
Seems like: FAMOUS BRIDGES → Actually: INTERTWINE
while wind can affect bridges, the word 'wind' is more closely related to the concept of intertwining threads or fibers