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Definitions of the day · 2026-08-23

Spoiler-safe definitions for Connections #1169

These individual entries clarify the board’s vocabulary without sorting the words or identifying any official answer category.

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Definitions of the day · 2026-08-23

All 16 words, explained without the answers.

Use this utility to check one unfamiliar expression at a time. The entries remain in the board’s original order and are defined individually, without sorting them or stating answer relationships.

POWDER KEG

A small barrel or keg used to hold gunpowder or another explosive powder.

Other meanings and uses
  • A figurative term for an unstable situation that could erupt suddenly.
  • A description applied to a volatile place with severe unresolved tensions.

TIME BOMB

An explosive device arranged to detonate after a delay or at a set time.

Other meanings and uses
  • A concealed problem expected to cause serious trouble in the future.
  • A dangerous condition whose harmful effects may emerge only after time passes.

TINDERBOX

A box holding tinder and related materials used for starting a fire.

Other meanings and uses
  • A very dry place or object that can catch fire readily.
  • A volatile situation that could flare into conflict or disorder.

VOLCANO

A vent in a planet’s crust through which lava, ash or gases may erupt.

Other meanings and uses
  • The mountain or landform built around such a volcanic vent.
  • A container or display shaped to imitate an erupting geological feature.

ANTIFREEZE

A substance added to a liquid to lower its freezing point and control temperature.

Other meanings and uses
  • Automotive coolant formulated to protect an engine’s cooling system.
  • An additive used in certain mechanical or industrial fluid systems.

BAZAAR

A market made up of shops or stalls selling a variety of goods.

Other meanings and uses
  • A temporary sale or fair, often organized to raise money.
  • A varied or colorful collection of merchandise, displays or activity.

SKIING

The activity of traveling or gliding over snow while using skis.

Other meanings and uses
  • A recreational winter activity practiced on prepared slopes or open terrain.
  • A competitive sport encompassing disciplines such as alpine and cross-country events.

VACUUM

A space containing very little matter or having pressure below its surroundings.

Other meanings and uses
  • A vacuum cleaner, especially in informal household usage.
  • An absence of people, authority, information or other expected content.
  • The act of cleaning a surface with a vacuum cleaner.

HOME FRIES

Potato pieces or slices cooked in a pan or on a griddle until browned.

Other meanings and uses
  • A breakfast or diner side dish that may include onions, peppers or seasonings.
  • A regional name covering several styles of fried or sautéed breakfast potatoes.

POTATO BATTERY

A simple electrochemical cell made by inserting different metal electrodes into a potato.

Other meanings and uses
  • A classroom demonstration used to show voltage from chemical reactions.
  • An informal name for one potato cell or several such cells connected together.

VISCHYSSOISE

A smooth soup commonly prepared with potatoes, leeks, stock and cream.

Other meanings and uses
  • A soup traditionally served chilled, though it may also be served warm.
  • A menu term for variations on creamy puréed potato-and-leek soup.

VODKA

A distilled alcoholic spirit generally valued for its clear appearance and neutral character.

Other meanings and uses
  • A base spirit used in cocktails and other mixed drinks.
  • A distilled product that may be made from grains, potatoes or other fermentable materials.

BAKING SODA

Sodium bicarbonate, a white alkaline powder used as a leavening agent in baking.

Other meanings and uses
  • A household deodorizing and cleaning material.
  • An ingredient that releases carbon dioxide when combined with an acid.
  • A compound used in some antacid products and personal-care preparations.

CLUB SODA

Carbonated water containing added mineral salts and commonly served as a beverage.

Other meanings and uses
  • A nonalcoholic mixer used in cocktails and other drinks.
  • A fizzy water sometimes used when blotting fresh spills.
  • A beverage served plain, chilled or with a garnish.

HYDROGEN PEROXIDE

A chemical compound of hydrogen and oxygen with the molecular formula H2O2.

Other meanings and uses
  • A dilute solution sold for certain household and personal-care uses.
  • An oxidizing and bleaching agent used in controlled applications.
  • An industrial chemical available in concentrations stronger than household solutions.

VINEGAR

A sour liquid containing acetic acid, produced through the fermentation of alcohol.

Other meanings and uses
  • A condiment and cooking ingredient used for acidity and flavor.
  • A liquid used in pickling and food preservation.
  • A household product used in some cleaning and deodorizing tasks.
  • A family of products including distilled, cider, wine and rice vinegars.

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