This historical NYT Strands puzzle is game #379, dated Monday, March 17, 2025. Its theme clue is “Sound switching.” Start with the hints below; the full answer list is behind a clear spoiler warning.
What is the theme of this NYT Strands puzzle?
The theme is “Sound switching.” The puzzle’s answers are connected to spoonerisms: verbal mix-ups in which sounds or letters from words in a phrase are switched, often with a humorous result.
What are the hints?
In-game clue words
Find these six words to unlock the puzzle’s in-game hints:
- DINE
- TRICK
- STICK
- HELP
- BEEN
- GRIN
Spangram length
The spangram is 11 letters long.
Which sides of the board does the spangram touch?
It reaches the left side at row 5 and the right side at row 6.
#1 Best Overall
Spoiler warning: full answers
The answers below reveal the completed puzzle.
- CROW
- CHIPS
- WELLS
- BEDDING
- BLUSHING
- STRICKEN
- Spangram: SPOONERISMS
Why do these answers fit?
The theme points to spoonerisms, verbal errors that mix up sounds or letters between words in a phrase. TechRadar’s March 16, 2025 report illustrates the idea with “BEDDING WELLS” and “BLUSHING CROW”; those are examples in the report, not official NYT definitions.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #3
Rank #2
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.




