What's Happening?
The New York Times' Wordle puzzle for September 25, 2025, featured the word 'DRAPE' as the solution. This word, which can function as both a noun and a verb, pertains to window dressing and involves cloth hanging in loose folds or decorating with cloth. The puzzle, which gives players six chances to guess a five-letter word, was originally created by software engineer Josh Wardle and gained popularity before being acquired by The New York Times in 2022. The Times' Wordle editor, Tracy Bennett, has previously stated that no word is a bad choice, and the Wordlebot recommended 'trace' as a solid starter word.
Why It's Important?
Wordle has become a cultural phenomenon, engaging millions of players worldwide and influencing daily routines. The game's popularity underscores the public's interest in word puzzles and language games, contributing to The New York Times' digital engagement and subscription growth. The inclusion of Wordle in The New York Times' offerings reflects the media company's strategy to diversify its content and attract a broader audience, particularly those interested in casual gaming and linguistic challenges.