Poople #161 Answer: OWLS to POOP

January 22, 2026 · Hard · 8 moves

Full solution

Reveal one hint at a time to keep the challenge, or jump straight to the full shortest path from OWLS to POOP.

Par 8 of 11. Rated Hard.

8 distinct shortest path(s) from OWLS to POOP.

OWLS connects to 5 other valid words.

The shortest routes split after move 1 and never agree again before POOP.

Harder than #160 (ROSY, par 5) by 3 move(s). #160 ROSY

Harder than #162 (RIGS, par 5) by 3 move(s). #162 RIGS

Right after OWLS, 3 different words keep the route just as short: AWLS, OILS, OWLY. None of them rejoin the others before POOP.

This ladder from OWLS to POOP had some real *hoots* along the way. That's a lot of "o" words!

OWLS(noun): Nocturnal birds of prey with large eyes and a hooting call.
AWLS(noun): small pointed tools used for piercing holes, especially in leather or wood
AILS(verb): troubles or afflicts in a way that causes pain or discomfort
AIDS(noun): Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, a disease that severely weakens the immune system
BIDS(verb): offers to pay a specific price for something, especially at an auction
BODS(noun): people or individuals, often used informally or humorously
BOOS(noun): Shouts of disapproval made by a crowd.
BOOP(noun): A gentle playful tap, especially on the nose.

Enter your current 4-letter word for the shortest path to POOP.

A new Poople puzzle unlocks daily, always at 08:00 UTC.

The #161 start word is OWLS. One shortest path to POOP takes 8 moves: OWLS -> AWLS -> AILS -> AIDS -> BIDS -> BODS -> BOOS -> BOOP -> POOP.

Poople #161 (OWLS) has a par of 8. The shortest path from OWLS to POOP takes 8 move(s).

Poople #161 has 8 distinct shortest path(s) from OWLS to POOP.

Poople #161 is rated Hard with a par of 8 out of a maximum of 11 across all daily start words.