Green group — CLASSIC COMIC STRIPS
Why is “BLOOM COUNTY” in the Green group?
a classic American comic strip created by Berke Breathed
Connections Hints for February 22, 2026 #986
Pro tip: Tap each section to reveal answers one at a time. If you just need a gentle hint, get the connection hint for February 22, 2026 #986
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Yellow Category — February 22, 2026
Green Category — February 22, 2026
Blue Category — February 22, 2026
Purple Category — February 22, 2026
Tricky Words in Today's Connections
▼Definitions for the most unusual words in today's puzzle
Tricky Words in Today's Connections
▼Purple group — ASSOCIATED WITH THEODORE ROOSEVELT
Why is “BULL MOOSE” in the Purple group?
Theodore Roosevelt's Progressive Party, also known as the Bull Moose Party
Word definitions
Tricky words in today's Connections (February 22, 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.
- SALT-AND-PEPPER
- Definition: a hair color pattern
- Why it's tricky: commonly refers to a seasoning
- BIG STICK
- Definition: Theodore Roosevelt's diplomacy policy
- Why it's tricky: can be interpreted literally
- TEDDY BEAR
- Definition: a toy named after Theodore Roosevelt
- Why it's tricky: can be associated with other historical figures
- ROUGH RIDERS
- Definition: Theodore Roosevelt's cavalry unit
- Why it's tricky: can be associated with other military units
Connections #986 explained
Why these words connect (February 22, 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: ONE WHO DOESN'T FIT IN
These words all describe individuals who are rejected or excluded from a group, often due to their unusual behavior or characteristics.
Green group: DESCRIPTORS FOR GRAYING HAIR
These words all describe the various ways in which hair can appear as it grays, from distinguished to flecked.
Blue group: CLASSIC COMIC STRIPS
These classic comic strips have been entertaining readers for decades, with beloved characters and storylines.
Purple group: ASSOCIATED WITH THEODORE ROOSEVELT
These words all have a connection to Theodore Roosevelt, whether through his policies, personality, or legacy.
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.
“SILVER”
Seems like it belongs to: ONE WHO DOESN'T FIT IN
Actually belongs to: DESCRIPTORS FOR GRAYING HAIR
Silver can be associated with a person who is aging, but it's actually a descriptor for graying hair.
“BLACK SHEEP”
Seems like it belongs to: ASSOCIATED WITH THEODORE ROOSEVELT
Actually belongs to: ONE WHO DOESN'T FIT IN
Black sheep can be associated with Theodore Roosevelt's rugged individualism, but it's actually a term for someone who doesn't fit in.
Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained
These words look like they belong in one group but actually fit somewhere else entirely.
Why “SILVER” didn't go with ONE WHO DOESN'T FIT IN
Seems like: ONE WHO DOESN'T FIT IN → Actually: DESCRIPTORS FOR GRAYING HAIR
Silver can be associated with a person who is aging, but it's actually a descriptor for graying hair.
Why “BLACK SHEEP” didn't go with ASSOCIATED WITH THEODORE ROOSEVELT
Seems like: ASSOCIATED WITH THEODORE ROOSEVELT → Actually: ONE WHO DOESN'T FIT IN
Black sheep can be associated with Theodore Roosevelt's rugged individualism, but it's actually a term for someone who doesn't fit in.