PILLOW
A soft cushion used to support the head or another part of the body while resting.
Other meanings and uses
- As a verb, to PILLOW something is to support or rest it on a soft surface.
Definitions of the day · 2026-09-18
Spoiler-Safe Definitions for the September 18, 2026 Connections Board
These entries clarify ordinary meanings and established uses while avoiding category labels and answer-based grouping.
Open the dated hints and answers →Definitions of the day · 2026-09-18
All 16 words, explained without the answers.
Use this utility to check an unfamiliar board word without being told which entries belong together. The words remain in their original board order, and the alternatives avoid unnecessary answer-revealing senses.
CRUISE
A pleasure journey, especially one made by ship with stops at different destinations.
Other meanings and uses
- Informally, to CRUISE can mean to proceed easily and with little apparent effort.
- The verb can also mean to move around leisurely without a fixed destination.
UPPER
Located above another thing, or higher in position, level, rank or order.
Other meanings and uses
- As a noun, an UPPER can mean the top portion of something, such as a shoe.
STEP
A movement made by lifting one foot and placing it down in a different position.
Other meanings and uses
- A STEP can be the flat surface on which a person places a foot when climbing.
- In dance, a STEP is a particular movement or combination of foot movements.
FLIGHT
An act of fleeing or escaping from danger, difficulty or pursuit.
Other meanings and uses
- A FLIGHT can be a series of stairs extending between two landings.
- The word can describe a swift passage or movement away from a place.
STAIR
One of a series of raised surfaces used for walking between different levels.
Other meanings and uses
- STAIR is often used attributively in phrases describing rails, wells or other nearby building features.
PLATTER
In informal older usage, a PLATTER can mean a phonograph record.
Other meanings and uses
- In computing, a PLATTER is one of the rigid disks inside certain data-storage drives.
LANDING
A level floor area at the top of, bottom of or between stairs.
Other meanings and uses
- As a grammatical form of LAND, LANDING can describe obtaining something sought, such as a job or role.
ROUND
Shaped like a circle or sphere, with a curved outline rather than sharp corners.
Other meanings and uses
- A ROUND can mean a regular route involving several stops or duties.
- As a verb, to ROUND something is to make it more curved or less angular.
STAGE
A raised platform on which performers appear before an audience in a theater or venue.
Other meanings and uses
- As a verb, to STAGE an event is to organize and present it.
- STAGE can also refer to a temporary platform used for public presentation.
TAKEOFF
An imitation or parody that humorously copies a person, style or work.
Other meanings and uses
- The word can describe a sudden beginning of rapid growth or success.
MEDLEY
A varied mixture or combination of different people, things, sounds or elements.
Other meanings and uses
- In music, a MEDLEY combines portions of several tunes into one continuous performance.
- In a race, MEDLEY can describe an event combining different swimming strokes.
BRIEF
Short in duration, length or extent, or expressed using relatively few words.
Other meanings and uses
- As a noun, a BRIEF is a concise summary or set of instructions.
- As a verb, to BRIEF someone is to give essential information before an activity.
BOARDING
Lodging provided for a person, sometimes together with regular meals.
Other meanings and uses
- BOARDING can describe temporary accommodation and care provided for a pet.
- The word can refer to boards used collectively to cover or form a surface.
SAMPLER
A decorative piece of needlework that displays stitches, letters, patterns or verses.
Other meanings and uses
- A SAMPLER can be a person whose work involves taking or examining samples.
PHASE
A form in which matter can exist, such as a solid, liquid or gas.
Other meanings and uses
- A PHASE can be the apparent shape of the illuminated portion of the moon or another celestial body.
- As a verb, to PHASE can mean to adjust the timing or synchronization of something.