October 7, 2026#948archive

NYT Strands — October 7, 2026

Hints — one at a time

Hint 1 of 5

Today's grid is full of shades and references tied to one bold color.

Hint 2 of 5

Every non-spangram word or name is associated with a particular vivid shade of pink.

Hint 3 of 5

One entry is the iconic doll brand known for its signature color; another is a pale pink gemstone.

Hint 4 of 5

The spangram is an idiom meaning absolutely delighted.

Hint 5 of 5

Look for BARBIE, BUBBLEGUM, FLAMINGO, QUARTZ and SHOCKING, all spanned by TICKLEDPINK.

Reveal the full answer

Theme

Color for the cure

Spangram

TICKLEDPINK

Theme words

BARBIE · BUBBLEGUM · FLAMINGO · QUARTZ · SHOCKING

Counted from our own archive of NYT Strands answers — not published anywhere else.