Poople #197 Answer: OWNS to POOP

February 27, 2026 · Hard · 9 moves

Full solution

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

Par 9 of 11. Rated Hard.

15 distinct shortest path(s) from OWNS to POOP.

OWNS connects to 3 other valid words.

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

Harder than #196 (WEST, par 5) by 4 move(s). #196 WEST

Harder than #198 (ARMS, par 7) by 2 move(s). #198 ARMS

Right after OWNS, 3 different words keep the route just as short: AWNS, OWES, OWLS. None of them rejoin the others before POOP.

This ladder to POOP is a real nail-biter, ending with a surprising "boop." The "awls" to "aids" jump is a classic Poople switcheroo.

OWNS(verb): has something as one's own; possesses
AWNS(noun): bristle-like appendages found on the flowering parts of some grasses and cereals
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 #197 start word is OWNS. One shortest path to POOP takes 9 moves: OWNS -> AWNS -> AWLS -> AILS -> AIDS -> BIDS -> BODS -> BOOS -> BOOP -> POOP.

Poople #197 (OWNS) has a par of 9. The shortest path from OWNS to POOP takes 9 move(s).

Poople #197 has 15 distinct shortest path(s) from OWNS to POOP.

Poople #197 is rated Hard with a par of 9 out of a maximum of 11 across all daily start words.