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The February 16 puzzle theme centers on competitive figure skating elements.
Spangram FIGURE SKATING connects all rink-inspired vocabulary across the grid.
Short performance terms like JUMP and SPIN unlock larger patterns.
The latest NYT Strands Today puzzle brings a crisp wintery theme which matches current weather conditions. The grid of February 16 presents an icy challenge that requires players to conduct thorough searches while using their sports knowledge to succeed.
Today's NYT Strands, titled "The Cutting Edge," indicates a sharp object that moves through the air. The hint, “On the rink, in Milan,” nudges the mind toward Olympic ice events. The grid contains words that show the connection between figure skating, artistic beauty, and athletic performance. The vocabulary system describes ice skating technical skills through its coverage of jumps and spins.
Here are structured clues to guide the search:
CR (9 letters) – A skating step that helps build speed and change direction.
JU (4 letters) – A leap performed off the ice.
SP (4 letters) – A rapid rotation on one blade.
LI (4 letters) – A partner move involving elevation.
TH (5 letters) – A dramatic partner-assisted launch.
LO (4 letters) – A specific edge-based jump.
CO (5 letters) – A sequence combining multiple moves.
The non-spangram solutions in the grid are:
CROSSOVER
JUMP
SPIN
LIFT
THROW
LOOP
COMBO
Each term reflects a core figure skating technique seen in competitive programs.
The complete alphabet test, known as a spangram exists on the board as FIGURE SKATING. The main theme of the work is demonstrated through this element, which connects all its parts and shows actual proof of its performance. The word "path" creates a flowing shape that resembles the wide arcs skaters make while skating on ice.
Start by identifying shorter, obvious words. The theme should guide you to search for common prefixes and familiar sports terms, which will help you identify a specific category. The process of tracking letter patterns throughout the grid leads to the automatic discovery of spangrams after two theme words have been established.
Also Read: NYT Wordle Answer Today for February 15, 2026: Hints, Strategy & Expert Walkthrough
The February 16 NYT Strands Answer highlights the grace and precision of figure skating while offering a satisfying vocabulary workout. Daily puzzles like this sharpen pattern recognition, reinforce word knowledge, and provide a refreshing mental reset.
