Definitions
A word can be valid to play and still mean something you didn't expect. Look it up here for the meaning, part of speech, and an example sentence before you rely on it in conversation (the board doesn't care, but your opponent might ask).
How Definitions works
Type any word and this tool looks up its meaning, part of speech and an example sentence in use. It's separate from the word lists that power the Finder, Validator and Anagram Solver — a word can be valid to play in Scrabble without you knowing exactly what it means, and this is where you check.
Worked example
Look up ABSEIL and you'll get its definition ("to descend a rock face or other near-vertical surface by using a doubled rope"), its part of speech (verb), and a short example sentence showing it in context. Handy for a word you're confident is playable but couldn't actually define if your opponent asked — which happens more often than most players admit.
Tips for using it well
- A word coming back valid on the Validator doesn't guarantee a definition here — some entries in Scrabble word lists are archaic or regional and may not appear in the dictionary this tool queries.
- Useful for settling casual disputes about a word's meaning without derailing the game to look it up elsewhere.
- Check the Glossary for Scrabble-specific reference lists, like high-value letters and words that use tricky tiles.
Common questions
Does this confirm a word is valid in Scrabble?
No — this tool looks up meaning, not playability. Use the Validator to check whether a word is actually allowed under UK or US Scrabble rules.
Why does a valid Scrabble word sometimes have no definition here?
Scrabble word lists include some short, archaic or highly regional words that general dictionaries don't cover in depth. That's a gap in the reference source, not a sign the word isn't real.
Where do the definitions come from?
The Free Dictionary API, credited in the footer of this page.