Wordle Answer for October 17, 2026

What gaffe means

A socially awkward or embarrassing mistake, especially one made publicly or in a formal situation.

Where the word comes from

From French "gaffe," meaning a blunder or awkward mistake. The French word originally referred to a boathook or long pole (from Provençal "gaffo"), then metaphorically came to mean a clumsy misstep or social blunder—as if someone had clumsily hooked themselves with their own pole. English adopted the term in the late 19th century.

Hints for October 17, 2026

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

Synonyms of gaffe

• slip
• faux pas
• gaucherie
• solecism

Used in a sentence

The politician's unfortunate _____ during the interview cost him several important endorsements.