HOLES Meaning, Definition & NYT Connections Answer
HOLES – Meaning & Definition
Learn HOLES meaning, HOLES definition, and a key synonym. See why HOLES was a NYT Connections answer, plus examples, etymology, and Scrabble tips.
What Does "HOLES" Mean? The Complete Holes Definition
The meaning of HOLES is usually the plural of hole, referring to openings, gaps, cavities, or empty spaces in a surface or object. In that basic sense, the HOLES definition covers everything from a puncture in fabric to a tunnel in the ground or an opening made for a purpose. If you are asking what does HOLES mean, the simplest answer is that it describes more than one hole.
HOLES can also appear in related grammatical forms, depending on context: as a noun phrase in everyday English, or as part of fixed expressions like “the holes in the argument.” The word is not usually an adjective by itself, but it can describe something that contains openings or flaws. The term comes from Old English hol, meaning an empty space or cavity, and its use has stayed very stable over time. For readers looking up HOLES meaning in word games, the key idea is still the same: openings, gaps, or missing parts.
Holes Synonyms: Words Similar to HOLES
Synonyms for HOLES include a range of words depending on whether you mean a physical opening or a figurative gap.
Openings — A broader term that can describe any place something can pass through, while holes are usually more specific and often smaller.
Gaps — Best for spaces between things or missing pieces, especially in patterns, arguments, or schedules.
Cavities — More formal and often used for hollow spaces in teeth, bodies, or structures.
Pits — Usually suggests a deeper depression or hollow in the ground, not just any opening.
Voids — A more abstract word for emptiness, often used in writing, science, or philosophy rather than everyday speech.
Perforations — Refers to a line or set of small holes made intentionally, like on tickets or paper.
Apertures — A technical or literary word for an opening, often used in photography, anatomy, or engineering.
How to Use "HOLES" in a Sentence: Real Examples
Here are a few clear examples of HOLES used in English in different contexts.
The old sweater had several holes in the sleeves after years of wear.
The golfer aimed for the hole on the final putt, showing the singular form related to HOLES.
The editor pointed out the holes in the argument, meaning weaknesses or missing logic.
The mechanic drilled holes into the metal plate to fit the screws.
HOLES in NYT Connections #1107 — Why Did It Appear?
In NYT Connections #1107 on 2026-04-06, HOLES appeared in the Blue category, the hardest group, titled COMPONENTS OF WHAC-A-MOLE. It belonged with MALLET, MOLE, and TIMER, because those are all parts or elements associated with the arcade game. That made HOLES NYT Connections answer especially tricky for players who did not know the theme. Without the game context, HOLES looks like an ordinary plural noun, which is why what does HOLES mean in NYT Connections was a common question that day. For players studying HOLES meaning in word games, this was a classic example of a misleading but correct category fit.
Holes Word Origin and Etymology
The HOLES origin traces back to Old English hol, meaning a hollow place, cavity, or empty space. That root is closely related to other Germanic forms with the same basic idea of something sunken or empty. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation shifted into Middle English and modern English, but the core meaning remained very stable.
Historically, HOLES used in English has stayed concrete and practical: people used it for openings in the ground, damaged places in materials, or spaces cut for a purpose. Later, English also expanded the word into figurative uses, such as “holes in a theory” or “holes in the plan,” where it means a weakness or missing part rather than a literal opening. That broadening is why the HOLES definition feels familiar in both everyday speech and puzzle games.
Frequently Asked Questions About "HOLES"
What does HOLES mean? (Quick Answer)
The word HOLES means multiple openings, gaps, or cavities. In common usage, it is simply the plural form of hole.
Is "HOLES" a valid Scrabble word?
Yes. HOLES is a valid Scrabble word, and it scores 8 points in standard English Scrabble. It’s useful because it’s a common, easy-to-place plural.
What is the best synonym for HOLES?
The best HOLES synonym depends on context: openings works for physical spaces, while gaps is better for missing parts or figurative weaknesses.
How do you pronounce HOLES?
HOLES is pronounced /hoʊlz/, like “hohlz,” with one syllable and stress on the single sound.
Is HOLES used in everyday English?
Yes, HOLES is very common in contemporary English and is used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as “holes in the road” or “holes in the plan.” It is not archaic.
