DailyWordHints
Thursday, July 9, 2026#1036

NYT Strands Hints & Answers — Thursday, July 9

DailyWordHints Editorial

Today’s theme

“On the lips”

Spangram
KISSANDMAKEUP
Theme words
  • BALM
  • GLOSS
  • LINER
  • PLUMPER
  • STAIN
  • STICK
  • TINT

Today's NYT Strands theme is "On the lips". Use the hints below before revealing the spangram and theme words.

Today’s theme

“On the lips”

Hints

    Today’s Strands answers

    Spangram
    KISSANDMAKEUP
    Theme words
    • BALM
    • GLOSS
    • LINER
    • PLUMPER
    • STAIN
    • STICK
    • TINT

    See all past Strands puzzles →

    Today's Strands hints (no spoilers)

    Here are spoiler-free clues for NYT Strands #1036, Thursday, July 9. The official theme is "On the lips" — work through the hints before revealing the spangram.

    How Strands hints work

    Each hint reveals a bit more about the theme and the spangram without naming any answer word. The full list of theme words stays below the fold.

    How to crack the spangram

    The spangram touches two opposite sides of the board and sums up the whole theme, so it's usually the longest answer. Find a couple of theme words first, ask what links them, then look for a long path that stretches edge to edge.

    Frequently asked questions

    What is the Strands spangram for July 9 (#1036)?
    Today's Strands spangram is KISSANDMAKEUP.
    What is the Strands theme today (#1036)?
    The theme clue is "On the lips", and the theme words are BALM, GLOSS, LINER, PLUMPER, STAIN, STICK, TINT.
    How many theme words are in a Strands puzzle?
    Each Strands board hides a set of theme words plus one spangram. Today's puzzle has 7 theme words to find alongside the spangram.