Wordle Answer for January 18, 2026

On January 18, 2026, the daily Wordle puzzle resolved to SUMAC. Here's the full breakdown — hints for each turn count, the definition, and the supporting clues we generated when this puzzle was live.

The answer

SUMAC

What sumac means

A shrub or small tree with compound leaves, reddish berries, and smooth or fuzzy branches, sometimes used as a spice or to make beverages.

Where the word comes from

Sumac comes from Old French *sumac*, which was borrowed from Arabic *summāq*. The Arabic word likely originated from a Semitic language, though the precise root remains uncertain. The plant itself is native to warm regions of the Middle East and Mediterranean, so the word traveled westward along with knowledge of the shrub and its uses.

Hints for January 18, 2026

Each row is the starting word our algorithm picks for that turn count, with the tiles Wordle would have shown in response.

Solve in 2 turnsdumas
Solve in 3 turnsdumas
Solve in 4 turnsmusic
Solve in 5 turnscamus
Solve in 6 turnscaums

Synonyms of sumac

  • sumach
  • shumac
  • staghorn
  • poison
  • sumack
  • shumack
  • tanner's sumac
  • skunkbush

Used in a sentence

The tart leaves of _____ add a lemony flavor to many Middle Eastern dishes.

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