Poople #142 Answer: JEST to POOP
January 3, 2026 · Easy · 5 moves
Full solution
Reveal one hint at a time to keep the challenge, or jump straight to the full shortest path from JEST to POOP.
About this puzzle
Par 5 of 11. Rated Easy.
2 distinct shortest path(s) from JEST to POOP.
JEST connects to 13 other valid words.
The shortest routes split after move 1 and never agree again before POOP.
Easier than #141 (BYTE, par 6) by 1 move(s). #141 BYTE
Easier than #143 (GIGA, par 6) by 1 move(s). #143 GIGA
How the routes branch
Right after JEST, 2 different words keep the route just as short: HEST, LEST. None of them rejoin the others before POOP.
JEST has two optimal paths to POOP, both through words ending in -EST. It's a quick trip, no matter if you start with HEST or LEST.
Bridge words
- JEST(noun)
- A joke or witty remark; to speak or act in a playful manner.
- HEST(noun)
- A command or order given by a person in authority.
- HOST(noun)
- A person who receives or entertains guests.
- HOOT(noun)
- a loud cry or shout, often expressing amusement or disapproval
- HOOP(noun)
- A circular band or ring of metal or wood.
First moves from JEST
JEST has 13 legal first moves. 2 of them stay on a shortest path to POOP.
Stays on the shortest path: 4 moves left to POOP.
Costs one extra move: 6 moves total to POOP.
Stuck on a different word?
Enter your current 4-letter word for the shortest path to POOP.
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Play todayFAQ
What is the Poople #142 answer?
The #142 start word is JEST. One shortest path to POOP takes 5 moves: JEST -> HEST -> HOST -> HOOT -> HOOP -> POOP.
Are there any other short solutions besides the two listed?
No, there are only two shortest solutions for JEST to POOP, both taking 5 moves. One path goes through LEST, and the other goes through HEST.
What happens if I start with a different first move from JEST?
If you choose any of the other 11 first moves from JEST, your solution will take one extra move, making it 6 moves long. For example, moving to BEST, FEST, or JESS will add an extra step to your path to POOP.
Why are HEST and LEST special first moves?
HEST and LEST are special because they are the only two first moves from JEST that lead to a shortest solution of 5 moves. All other first moves from JEST will result in a longer path to POOP.