Theme: Things that Connect!

Today's answers connect things in different ways, from mechanical fasteners and structures to wireless technology and human interaction.

9 themed words All 26 letters covered Vowels shown in gold Consonants hidden in blue
1
A     E
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  1. A rod around which wheels can rotate.
  2. It connects wheels in many vehicles and machines.
  3. It helps support rotating components.
  4. Cars, carts, and bicycles use versions of it.
Reveal answer
A X L E
Background information
An axle is a shaft or rod that connects and supports rotating wheels or other mechanical components.
2
  A   I    
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  1. A group linked by relationships and kinship.
  2. Its members may span several generations.
  3. Marriage, birth, and adoption can create new connections within it.
  4. It can include immediate and extended relatives.
Reveal answer
F A M I L Y
Background information
A family connects people through relationships such as birth, marriage, adoption, and shared family ties.
3
  I     I E
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  1. A narrow fastener that loops around objects.
  2. Its locking head allows it to tighten securely.
  3. It is often used to bundle cables together.
  4. It is usually inexpensive and lightweight.
Reveal answer
Z I P T I E
Background information
A zip tie, or cable tie, is a flexible fastener commonly used to bundle, secure, or connect objects such as wires and cables.
4
  E       O
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  1. Two strips that fasten together when pressed.
  2. One side uses tiny hooks and the other uses loops.
  3. It can be opened and closed repeatedly.
  4. It is common on clothing, shoes, bags, and straps.
Reveal answer
V E L C R O
Background information
Velcro is a well-known brand of hook-and-loop fastening system in which two complementary surfaces connect when pressed together.
5
  U       I O  
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  1. A place where two or more routes meet.
  2. Roads and railway lines can form one.
  3. Traffic may split or merge at this point.
  4. The word can also describe a connection in an electrical circuit.
Reveal answer
J U N C T I O N
Background information
A junction is a point where routes, lines, components, or pathways meet or connect.
6
    U E   O O    
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  1. Wireless technology that links nearby electronic devices.
  2. It is commonly used with headphones and speakers.
  3. It works without a physical cable.
  4. Phones, computers, watches, and cars often support it.
Reveal answer
B L U E T O O T H
Background information
Bluetooth is a short-range wireless technology used to exchange data and connect compatible electronic devices.
7
  U I       I    
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  1. A metal connector with a threaded closure.
  2. It resembles an elongated chain link.
  3. It can join chains, cables, or other hardware.
  4. Its opening can be secured by tightening a sleeve.
Reveal answer
Q U I C K L I N K
Background information
A quick link is a reusable metal connector with a threaded closure, commonly used to join chains, ropes, cables, and hardware.
8
  A         A   E
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  1. A gesture where two people clasp hands in greeting or agreement.
  2. It commonly happens when people meet.
  3. It can symbolize agreement, respect, or introduction.
  4. The term is also used in computing when systems establish communication.
Reveal answer
H A N D S H A K E
Background information
A handshake physically connects two people during a greeting or agreement; in computing, the term also describes the process of establishing a connection between systems.
9
    A       I     E
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  1. A movable structure that spans a gap or waterway.
  2. It connects two sides when lowered.
  3. It can be raised to allow boats to pass.
  4. Historic castles also used versions for controlled access.
Reveal answer
D R A W B R I D G E
Background information
A drawbridge connects two sides of a crossing when lowered and can be raised to open the route below or restrict access.

Connection Facts

🔗 Fast Connections
Quick links use threaded sleeves that allow chains, cables, or other hardware to be joined and disconnected.
📶 Wireless Link
Bluetooth was designed for short-range wireless communication between compatible electronic devices.
🤝 Two Meanings
A handshake can connect people socially, while a digital handshake establishes communication between computer systems.
🌉 Moving Connection
A drawbridge provides a crossing when lowered but can move out of the way to permit traffic beneath it.