Blue group — KINDS OF KNOTS
Why is “SHEEPSHANK” in the Blue group?
a type of knot used to join two ends of a rope together
Connections Hints for May 5, 2026 #1058
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Yellow Category — May 5, 2026
Green Category — May 5, 2026
Blue Category — May 5, 2026
Purple Category — May 5, 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 — STARTING WITH UNITS IN COMPETITIONS
Why is “GAMELAN” in the Purple group?
a type of musical ensemble from Indonesia
Word definitions
Tricky words in today's Connections (May 5, 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.
- HINT
- Definition: a subtle indication or suggestion
- Why it's tricky: can be a noun or a verb, and has multiple meanings in different contexts
- SETBACK
- Definition: a reverse or check in progress
- Why it's tricky: can also refer to a type of competition or a geographical feature
- SHEEPSHANK
- Definition: a type of knot
- Why it's tricky: is a less common word and may be unfamiliar to non-sailors
- GAMELAN
- Definition: a type of musical ensemble
- Why it's tricky: is a less common word and may be unfamiliar to non-music enthusiasts
Connections #1058 explained
Why these words connect (May 5, 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: GLIMMER
These words all relate to subtle or faint indications, such as a flicker of light or a hint of a suggestion.
Green group: INVOLUNTARY ACTIONS
These words all describe actions that occur without conscious intention, such as blinking or sneezing.
Blue group: KINDS OF KNOTS
These words all describe different types of knots, such as a bend or a bowline.
Purple group: STARTING WITH UNITS IN COMPETITIONS
These words all start with units of measurement or competition, such as a game or a match.
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.
“MATCHSTICK”
Seems like it belongs to: KINDS OF KNOTS
Actually belongs to: STARTING WITH UNITS IN COMPETITIONS
although matchsticks can be used to create a makeshift knot, the word is actually part of a competition term
“HITCH”
Seems like it belongs to: INVOLUNTARY ACTIONS
Actually belongs to: KINDS OF KNOTS
although a hitch can be an involuntary action, in this context it refers to a type of knot
Today's Tricky Traps — Red Herrings Explained
These words look like they belong in one group but actually fit somewhere else entirely.
Why “MATCHSTICK” didn't go with KINDS OF KNOTS
Seems like: KINDS OF KNOTS → Actually: STARTING WITH UNITS IN COMPETITIONS
although matchsticks can be used to create a makeshift knot, the word is actually part of a competition term
Why “HITCH” didn't go with INVOLUNTARY ACTIONS
Seems like: INVOLUNTARY ACTIONS → Actually: KINDS OF KNOTS
although a hitch can be an involuntary action, in this context it refers to a type of knot