CHEVRON
A V-shaped mark, stripe, or pattern with its point directed up or down.
Other meanings and uses
- A chevron can be a V-shaped heraldic band or an insignia showing rank.
Definitions of the day · 2026-10-20
Spoiler-Safe Definitions for the October 20, 2026 Connections Board
These entries clarify ordinary meanings and established uses while preserving the original order of all sixteen board words.
Open the dated hints and answers →Definitions of the day · 2026-10-20
All 16 words, explained without the answers.
Use this utility to check an unfamiliar or ambiguous word without seeing categories or related entries placed together. Definitions follow the board order, and alternate senses avoid disclosing the official answer structure.
DOCK
A waterside structure or enclosed area where boats load, unload, or remain tied.
Other meanings and uses
- As a verb, to dock can mean to deduct part of someone’s pay.
- To dock an animal can mean to shorten its tail.
BELL
A hollow, usually metal object that produces a ringing sound when struck.
Other meanings and uses
- A bell can be an electrical signaling device, such as a doorbell.
- The word can describe the flared or widened end of an object.
PENCIL
A slender writing or drawing tool containing a graphite or colored core.
Other meanings and uses
- As a verb, pencil can mean to write, mark, or schedule something provisionally.
POODLE
A dog of a breed known for intelligence and a dense, curly coat.
Other meanings and uses
- The word is used attributively in phrases describing poodle breeds, coats, or grooming.
WRAP
To cover or enclose something by folding or winding material around it.
Other meanings and uses
- A wrap can be a loose outer garment worn around the shoulders.
- A wrap can also be food enclosed in a soft flatbread.
MINI
Something notably small, short, or reduced in size compared with a standard version.
Other meanings and uses
- Mini is also used informally as a noun for a smaller version of something.
- As an adjective, it can describe clothing made with a short hemline.
MINION
In older usage, a person specially favored by a sovereign or other powerful figure.
Other meanings and uses
- The regular plural form of minion is minions.
WALRUS
A large Arctic marine mammal with long tusks, whiskers, and broad flippers.
Other meanings and uses
- The noun is used attributively in phrases such as walrus tusk or walrus habitat.
PUPPET
A doll or model used in a performance and moved by strings, rods, a hand, or another mechanism.
Other meanings and uses
- The word is commonly used attributively in phrases such as puppet show or puppet theater.
CLOSE
To move something into a position that blocks or shuts an opening.
Other meanings and uses
- As an adjective, close can mean nearby in distance or intimate in relationship.
- A close contest is one in which the competitors are nearly equal.
HORSESHOE
A curved, usually U-shaped band fitted to a horse’s hoof for protection.
Other meanings and uses
- A horseshoe can also be the object tossed toward a stake in a lawn game.
- The word may describe another object or arrangement with a similar U shape.
ARIAL
A widely used sans-serif typeface with clean, relatively plain letterforms.
Other meanings and uses
- Arial also names a family of related typeface weights and styles.
STOP
A place where a bus or train regularly pauses to take on or let off passengers.
Other meanings and uses
- A stop can be a temporary stay made during a journey.
- The noun can refer to the act of pausing at such a place.
STOOGE
In comedy, a performer who acts as another performer’s foil or target.
Other meanings and uses
- As a verb, stooge can mean to perform in the role of a comedy foil.
END
The outermost point, edge, or side of a physical object.
Other meanings and uses
- An end can mean an aim or purpose, as in pursuing a desired end.
- The word can refer to either outermost side of a long object.