5 FiveLetterWords

Uncommon five-letter words

Words that appear between once per million and once per ten million words — understood in context, rarely produced unprompted.

What this band means

Scores in this band run from Zipf 2 up to 3: one appearance per million words of English down to one per ten million. Translated into reading, someone who finishes a novel a week would meet a band-ceiling word like MOLAR about once a season, and a band-floor word closer to once every two years. The measurements come from the wordfreq corpus of books, subtitles, news and web text, taken over the site's accepted-guess list.

This is recognition vocabulary. Most fluent readers understand GAUNT in a sentence, can picture SABLE, and have seen OCHRE on a paint chart, but few would produce any of them unprompted. The band is where English keeps its trade and material words — fabric names like TULLE, anatomy, heraldry, kitchen and workshop terms — words that live in specific rooms of the language rather than in daily talk.

In this site's recorded Wordle history, 433 of the band's 2,984 words have appeared as answers. That is a smaller share than the common bands, but it is far from zero: recorded answers do reach into this territory. The practical reading is that an unfamiliar-feeling word is not automatically a wasted guess. When the letters you have confirmed spell something you only half-recognize, it deserves a real look before you discard it.

Entries show each word's Zipf score as a plain rate, a sourced definition where one exists — a few words here have none, and those entries simply go without rather than guessing — a CEFR level where recorded, and recorded answer dates. Scores are measured over the site's accepted-guess list of 14,855 words.

All 2,984 words, Zipf 2 to 3

Each word links to its full page. The Zipf figure is the word's corpus frequency turned into a plain rate; definitions are selected and lightly formatted from Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0), and long entries may be shortened. A “past Wordle answer” line means the word appears in this site's recorded answer history; its solver-pressure figure ranks that recorded puzzle against all other recorded puzzles for a reference solver, so 70/100 reads “harder than 70% of them.” CEFR chips (A1–B2) estimate when English learners typically meet a word.

  1. ABACK Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    By surprise; startled; dumbfounded. (see usage) — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 7, 2021 · solver pressure 37/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  2. ALOOF Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    At or from a distance, but within view, or at a small distance; apart; away. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on January 26, 2024 · solver pressure 26/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  3. BREWS Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of brew — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  4. CAJUN Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative letter-case form of Cajun. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  5. CONVO Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A conversation. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  6. DORMS Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of dorm — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  7. DRUID Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A priest or mage who uses magic based on nature or trees. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  8. DUVET Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B1

    A quilt or usually flat cloth bag with a filling (traditionally down) and usually an additional washable cover, used instead of blankets; often called a comforter or quilt, especially in US English. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on March 22, 2023 · solver pressure 19/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  9. EJECT Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To compel (a person or persons) to leave. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on December 1, 2022 · solver pressure 46/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  10. FORGO Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To do without (something enjoyable); to relinquish. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 1, 2022 · solver pressure 64/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  11. FREER Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    One who frees. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  12. FRYER Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A machine or container for frying food. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  13. GURUS Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of guru — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  14. HOSES Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of hose — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  15. LARGO Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A very slow tempo. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  16. LARVA Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An early stage of growth for some insects and amphibians, in which after hatching from their egg, insects are wingless and resemble a caterpillar or grub, and amphibians lack limbs and resemble fish. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on April 30, 2022 · solver pressure 89/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  17. LAUDE Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A surname. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  18. LIVID Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Having a dark, bluish appearance. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 18, 2025 · solver pressure 87/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  19. LOTTE Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    burbot (fish) — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  20. MARES Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of mare — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  21. MOLAR Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A back tooth having a broad surface used for grinding one's food. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on December 30, 2022 · solver pressure 52/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  22. PAWNS Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of pawn — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  23. PRIMO Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The principal part of a duet. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on June 15, 2022 · solver pressure 50/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  24. RAYON Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A manufactured regenerated cellulosic fiber. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on September 14, 2023 · solver pressure 15/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  25. SABLE Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A small carnivorous mammal of the Old World that resembles a weasel, Martes zibellina, from cold regions in Eurasia and the North Pacific islands, valued for its dark brown fur. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  26. SLUSH Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Half-melted snow or ice, generally located on the ground. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on August 1, 2026 · solver pressure 95/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  27. SMELT Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Any small anadromous fish of the family Osmeridae, found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and in lakes in North America and northern part of Europe. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on March 14, 2022 · solver pressure 40/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  28. STIRS Zipf 2.99 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of stir — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  29. AXLES Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of axle — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  30. BOOBY Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A stupid person. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on August 12, 2021 · solver pressure 99/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  31. BREES Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of bree — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  32. BUSHY Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Like a bush in having many branches that spread out densely in all directions. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  33. CALMS Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    third-person singular simple present indicative of calm — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  34. CAVED Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    past participle of cave — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  35. CLUNG Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    simple past and past participle of cling — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on November 15, 2025 · solver pressure 65/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  36. COALS Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of coal — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  37. CRISS Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative form of kris (“dagger”). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  38. DINED Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    simple past and past participle of dine — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  39. FONDA Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An inn or hotel in a Spanish-speaking country. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  40. GINNY Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Affected by gin; resembling or characteristic of gin. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  41. HOUGH Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative form of hock (“the hollow behind the knee”). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  42. JAFFA Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A type of sweet orange, normally seedless. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  43. MEMOS Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of memo — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  44. MOCHA Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A coffee drink with chocolate syrup added, or a serving thereof. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  45. NOOSE Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An adjustable loop of rope, such as the one placed around the neck in hangings, or the one at the end of a lasso. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  46. PARSE Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To resolve (a sentence, etc.) into its elements, pointing out the several parts of speech, and their relation to each other by agreement or government; to analyze and describe grammatically. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  47. PETRI Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Ellipsis of petri dish. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  48. PUNKS Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of punk — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  49. SAVOR Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative spelling of savour. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on June 25, 2024 · solver pressure 78/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  50. TAINT Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A contamination, decay or putrefaction, especially in food. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  51. TARTS Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of tart — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  52. TIARA Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The three-tiered papal crown. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 27, 2022 · solver pressure 9/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  53. VINNY Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    vinewed, mouldy — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  54. VISOR Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A part of a helmet, arranged so as to lift or open, and so show the face. The openings for seeing and breathing are generally in it. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on November 16, 2024 · solver pressure 64/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  55. VOLTA Zipf 2.98 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A turning; a time (chiefly used in phrases signifying that the part is to be repeated). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  56. ACTON Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative form of aketon. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  57. ALDER Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Any of several trees or shrubs of the genus Alnus, belonging to the birch family. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  58. BALES Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of bale — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  59. BOSSY Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B2

    Tending to give orders to others, especially when unwarranted; domineering. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 24, 2024 · solver pressure 92/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  60. CLOTS Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of clot — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  61. COLDS Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of cold — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  62. CRUMB Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A small piece which breaks off from baked food (such as cake, biscuit or bread). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on June 8, 2023 · solver pressure 84/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  63. DAMES Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of dame — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  64. DIDDY Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A woman's breast. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  65. DIVED Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    simple past and past participle of dive (scuba diving) — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  66. EMBER Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A piece of coal or wood glowing by heat; a hot coal. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on January 28, 2024 · solver pressure 99/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  67. EMMYS Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of Emmy — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  68. ERUPT Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B2

    To eject something violently (such as lava or water, as from a volcano or geyser). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on March 15, 2024 · solver pressure 11/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  69. EVICT Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To expel (one or more people) from their property; to force (one or more people) to move out. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  70. GLEAM Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B2

    An appearance of light, especially one which is indistinct or small, or short-lived. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on April 27, 2024 · solver pressure 63/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  71. GUMMY Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Showing the gums. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 30, 2024 · solver pressure 98/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  72. IDIOM Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B1

    A manner of speaking, a mode of expression peculiar to a language, language family, or group of people. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 30, 2025 · solver pressure 65/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  73. JADED Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Bored or lacking enthusiasm, typically after having been overexposed to, or having consumed too much of something. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  74. MADDY Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A diminutive of the female given name Madeleine. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  75. ODORS Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of odor — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  76. PANTY Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An article of clothing worn as underpants by women. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  77. PLUMS Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of plum — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  78. POOCH Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A dog. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  79. SCOUR Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To clean, polish, or wash (something) by rubbing and scrubbing it vigorously, frequently with an abrasive or cleaning agent. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 18, 2022 · solver pressure 65/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  80. SNOWS Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    One or both regions of the Earth where it snows the year round; the Arctic and/or Antarctic. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  81. TALON Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A sharp, hooked claw of a bird of prey or other predatory animal. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on February 14, 2024 · solver pressure 43/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  82. THUMP Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B1

    A blow that produces a muffled sound. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on April 19, 2023 · solver pressure 91/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  83. TRUER Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    comparative form of true: more true — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  84. WAITE Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Archaic spelling of wait. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  85. YEARN Zipf 2.97 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B2

    To have a strong desire for something or to do something; to long for or to do something. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on August 20, 2021 · solver pressure 18/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  86. BAMBI Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A female given name. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  87. BUENA Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A female given name. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  88. CADDY Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A small box or tin (can) with a lid for holding dried tea leaves used to brew tea. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  89. CHASM Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A deep, steep-sided rift, gap or fissure; a gorge or abyss. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on January 15, 2026 · solver pressure 37/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  90. CRASS Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Coarse; crude; unrefined or insensitive; lacking discrimination or taste. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on August 25, 2021 · solver pressure 82/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  91. CREWE Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A group of people, especially in Louisiana, who support a Mardi Gras float in parades, as well as other charity work. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  92. FLEUR Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    fleur-de-lis — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  93. KITES Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of kite — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  94. ODOUR Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    UK standard spelling of odor. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  95. PIPED Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    simple past and past participle of pipe — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  96. PRUNE Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The dried, wrinkled fruit of certain species of plum. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on April 28, 2024 · solver pressure 49/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  97. TAUNT Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words CEFR B2

    To make fun of (someone); to goad (a person) into responding, often in an aggressive manner. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on September 6, 2022 · solver pressure 86/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  98. WHIRL Zipf 2.96 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To rotate, revolve, spin or turn rapidly. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on July 12, 2023 · solver pressure 69/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  99. ADAGE Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An old saying which has obtained credit by long use. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on July 1, 2024 · solver pressure 22/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  100. BRASH Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Overly bold or self-assertive to the point of being insensitive, tactless or impudent; shameless. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 21, 2023 · solver pressure 42/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  101. CHIMP Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Clipping of chimpanzee. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  102. DHONI Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A handcrafted sailboat with a motor or lateen sails, resembling a dhow, that is used in the Maldives. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  103. EDEMA Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An excessive accumulation of serum in tissue spaces or a body cavity. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  104. FLACK Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A publicist, a publicity agent. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  105. FORMA Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Synonym of form (“the component of a thing that determines its kind”). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  106. HAVES Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The wealthy or privileged, and those with power and possessions. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  107. HIKED Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    simple past and past participle of hike — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  108. LIEGE Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A free and independent person; specifically, a lord paramount; a sovereign. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  109. LLAMA Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A South American mammal of the camel family, Lama glama, used as a domestic beast of burden and a source of wool and meat. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on August 20, 2025 · solver pressure 90/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  110. NAVEL Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The indentation or bump remaining in the abdomen of placental mammals where the umbilical cord was attached before birth. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on March 8, 2025 · solver pressure 7/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  111. PAYED Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Misspelling of paid. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  112. PERKY Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Lively and often cheerful and enthusiastic. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on January 28, 2022 · solver pressure 99/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  113. SANSA Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative spelling of zanza.. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  114. STEED Zipf 2.95 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A bicycle or other vehicle. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 22, 2021 · solver pressure 24/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  115. BEVAN Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    a bogan — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  116. CHEWY Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Having a pliable or springy texture when chewed. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  117. CLEFT Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An opening, fissure, or V-shaped indentation made by or as if by splitting. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on February 2, 2024 · solver pressure 20/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  118. CLUMP Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A cluster or lump; an unshaped piece or mass. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on April 21, 2026 · solver pressure 32/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  119. DEUCE Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A card with two pips, one of four in a standard deck of playing cards. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on November 12, 2025 · solver pressure 12/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  120. DOPED Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Drugged. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  121. EMBED Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To lay (something) as in a bed; to lay in surrounding matter; to bed. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on February 8, 2026 · solver pressure 81/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  122. GEEKY Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Resembling or characteristic of a geek. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  123. LURES Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of lure — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  124. MUSHY Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Resembling or having the consistency of mush; semiliquid, pasty, or granular. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on September 1, 2024 · solver pressure 61/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  125. OVARY Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A female reproductive organ, often paired, that produces ova in most animals, and in mammals, secretes the hormones estrogen and progesterone. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  126. RUNNY Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Fluid; readily flowing. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  127. SAITH Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative form of saithe (“type of fish”). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  128. SENNA Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Any of several plants of the tribe Cassieae, especially those of the genera Cassia and Senna, whose leaves and pods are used as a purgative and laxative. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  129. SILOS Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of silo — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  130. SIMBA Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The Western Bolivian Guaraní language, ISO language code gnw. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  131. TACIT Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Implied, but not made explicit, especially through silence. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on February 20, 2022 · solver pressure 14/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  132. TILLY Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An extra product given to a customer at no additional charge; a lagniappe. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  133. TOTES Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of tote — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  134. VIXEN Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A female fox. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on June 12, 2025 · solver pressure 67/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  135. WAUGH Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative form of waff (“to bark”). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  136. WHIMS Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of whim — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  137. WREAK Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To cause harm; to afflict; to inflict; to harm or injure; to let out harm. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 26, 2024 · solver pressure 72/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  138. XVIII Zipf 2.94 · about 1 use per 2 million words
  139. AMISS Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Wrong; faulty; out of order; improper or otherwise incorrect. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on August 17, 2023 · solver pressure 56/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  140. ASSED Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Having a particular kind of ass or backside. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  141. CUTER Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    comparative form of cute: more cute — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  142. DIMES Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of dime — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  143. EASES Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of ease — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  144. ETHYL Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The univalent hydrocarbon radical, C₂H₅, formally derived from ethane by the loss of a hydrogen atom. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  145. GLOWS Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    third-person singular simple present indicative of glow — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  146. GRADS Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of grad — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  147. GRITS Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of grit ('hulled oats'); groats. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  148. HEADY Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Intoxicating or stupefying. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on February 10, 2023 · solver pressure 3/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  149. HOMME Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A surname. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  150. HOTLY Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    With great amounts of heat. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  151. LAYUP Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A close-range shot in which the shooter banks the ball off the backboard from a few feet away. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  152. LIBRA Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A Roman unit of mass, usually equivalent to 327 g. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  153. LIFES Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of life — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  154. MODUS Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A qualification involving the idea of variation or departure from some general rule or form, in the way of either restriction or enlargement, according to the circumstances of the case, as in the… — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  155. PECAN Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A deciduous tree, Carya illinoinensis, of the central and southern United States, having deeply furrowed bark, pinnately compound leaves, and edible nuts. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on January 7, 2026 · solver pressure 64/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  156. PINGS Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of ping — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  157. PIQUE Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To wound the pride of (someone); to excite to anger; to irritate, to offend. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 26, 2023 · solver pressure 58/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  158. SHOAL Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A sandbank or sandbar creating a shallow. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on March 10, 2026 · solver pressure 52/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  159. SMITE Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To strike down or kill with godly force. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on June 24, 2022 · solver pressure 14/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  160. TWINE Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A twist; a convolution. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 2, 2022 · solver pressure 16/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  161. TWINK Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To twinkle; to sparkle. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  162. VOILA Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative spelling of voilà. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on April 7, 2024 · solver pressure 21/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  163. YARNS Zipf 2.93 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of yarn — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  164. AORTA Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The great artery which carries the blood from the heart to all parts of the body except the lungs; the main trunk of the arterial system. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on December 23, 2022 · solver pressure 2/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  165. BERET Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A type of round, brimless cap with a soft top and a headband to secure it to the head; usually culturally associated with France. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 1, 2023 · solver pressure 51/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  166. BOGEY Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A ghost, goblin, or other hostile supernatural creature. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  167. BORON Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The chemical element (symbol B) with an atomic number of 5, which is a metalloid found in its pure form as a dark amorphous powder. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  168. BUGLE Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A horn used by hunters. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on June 23, 2024 · solver pressure 15/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  169. FLIER Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    comparative form of fly: more fly — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  170. FRISK Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A little playful skip or leap; a brisk and lively movement. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  171. GASPS Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of gasp — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  172. GIRTH Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A band passed under the belly of an animal, which holds a saddle or a harness saddle in place. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on June 9, 2022 · solver pressure 31/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  173. MATED Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    simple past and past participle of mate — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  174. PLUMB Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A little mass of lead, or the like, attached to a line, and used by builders, etc., to indicate a vertical direction. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on December 11, 2024 · solver pressure 91/100, hard for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  175. POKES Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    third-person singular simple present indicative of poke — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  176. PORTA Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    The part of the liver or other organ where its vessels and nerves enter; the hilum. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  177. POSEY Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Pretentious; posturing. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  178. SAGES Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of sage — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  179. TECHS Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of tech — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  180. VYING Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    present participle and gerund of vie — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on December 12, 2024 · solver pressure 89/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  181. WALLA Zipf 2.92 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative spelling of wallah. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  182. AMORE Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words
  183. BABEL Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative form of Babel. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  184. BERYL Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A mineral of pegmatite deposits, often used as a gemstone (molecular formula Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈). — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  185. BRATS Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of brat — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  186. CALLE Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words
  187. CARTA Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A surname. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  188. CHUMP Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An incompetent person, a blockhead; a loser. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on March 29, 2026 · solver pressure 55/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  189. CLOVE Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A very pungent aromatic spice, the unexpanded flower bud of the clove tree. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on February 21, 2025 · solver pressure 62/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  190. COMTE Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A French count. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  191. CYSTS Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of cyst — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  192. DEERE Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Archaic spelling of dear. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  193. ENSUE Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    To occur afterwards, as a result or effect. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on August 5, 2024 · solver pressure 38/100, middle of the pack among recorded puzzles.

  194. EPICS Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of epic — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  195. GECKO Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Any lizard in the infraorder Gekkota. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on May 10, 2022 · solver pressure 80/100, tricky among recorded puzzles.

  196. ILIAD Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    An Ancient Greek epic poem, ascribed to Homer, which depicts events near the end of the Trojan War. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  197. LATHE Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    A machine tool used to shape a piece of material, or workpiece, by rotating the workpiece against a cutting tool. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

    Past Wordle answer on October 30, 2025 · solver pressure 25/100, easier for the solver among recorded puzzles.

  198. MICKY Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    Alternative spelling of mickey. — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  199. OATHS Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    plural of oath — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

  200. OUTED Zipf 2.91 · about 1 use per 2 million words

    simple past and past participle of out — Wiktionary contributors (CC BY-SA 4.0)

How these scores are measured

Frequency scores come from the wordfreq project (data CC BY-SA 4.0), which averages word rates across books, subtitles, news and web text. A Zipf score is the base-10 logarithm of a word's uses per billion words, so each whole point is a tenfold change in frequency: Zipf 4 is ten uses per million words, Zipf 3 is one. The four bands split the site's accepted-guess list of 14,855 five-letter words at Zipf 4, 3 and 2 — round thresholds chosen from the observed distribution, not judgments about individual words.

“Past Wordle answer” claims come only from this site's recorded answer history, and the working answer pool never predicts what the NYT will choose. Solver-pressure figures are percentiles among recorded puzzles for a reference solver — a claim about those puzzles, not about players. Learner levels: The CEFR-J Wordlist Version 1.5. Compiled by Yukio Tono, Tokyo University of Foreign Studies. Retrieved from http://www.cefr-j.org/download.html on 1/20/2020.