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Need a nudge for NYT Strands #736? Start with this gentle hint: think of affectionate nicknames inspired by food. Stop here if that is enough; the theme and answers follow below.
NYT Strands hints for March 9 (#736)
The puzzle is dated Monday, March 9, 2026. Its clue is “Food-related pet names.” If you want to keep solving without seeing the answers, look for words connected to that idea.
Theme hint
The theme is “Cute enough to eat.” In Strands, finding any three words of at least four letters reveals a theme-word hint. Examples reported for this board include FUDGE, PENT, BENT, DARE, DART, PEST, PETS, PUMP, MILE, MILD, DUMP, and DEAR. Other qualifying words may work too.
Spangram location hint
The reported route starts at the E two letters down in the far-left vertical row and winds downward. This is a route description, not an independently verified board analysis.
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Spoilers below: the six listed theme words are BEAN, MUFFIN, NUGGET, PUMPKIN, PEANUT, and DUMPLING.
Spangram
The spangram is ENDEARMENTS.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How many theme words does Strands have?
The number of theme words can vary from board to board, so the six answers listed here should not be taken as a fixed count for every Strands puzzle.
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