Word games like Scrabble are filled with strategy, vocabulary, and quick decision-making. Players constantly weigh whether a particular word is both valid and worth playing for maximum points. One word that occasionally causes hesitation is extol. It’s not an everyday term for most people, but it sounds formal enough to be legitimate. So when you’ve got the right letters on your rack, you may find yourself asking: is extol a Scrabble word? Understanding the rules, meanings, and applications of this word in gameplay can help you confidently use it to your advantage on the board.
What Does Extol Mean?
A Brief Definition of the Word
Extol is a verb that means to praise enthusiastically or to speak highly of something or someone. It comes from Latin roots and is more commonly used in written English than in everyday conversation. For example, someone might say, The teacher extolled the student’s efforts, which means the teacher offered high praise.
Here are a few examples of how extol might be used:
- Critics extolled the film’s originality and bold storytelling.
- He was extolled for his bravery during the rescue mission.
- topics continue to extol the benefits of a healthy diet.
Though it may not be part of your casual vocabulary, its legitimacy as a word is not in question. But does that make it playable in Scrabble?
Is Extol a Valid Scrabble Word?
Accepted in the Official Scrabble Dictionaries
Yes, extol is a valid word in Scrabble. It appears in the Official Scrabble Players Dictionary, making it an acceptable play in standard Scrabble games across North America. It is also accepted in other major word lists such as SOWPODS, which is used in international play. As long as you follow the rules of proper spelling and placement, extol is completely legal in both casual and tournament Scrabble matches.
Let’s break down the specifics of the word in a Scrabble context:
- Word: Extol
- Letter Count: 5
- Scrabble Score: E (1) + X (8) + T (1) + O (1) + L (1) =12 points
- Part of Speech: Verb
The presence of the letter X gives it a scoring advantage. While it’s only five letters long, its value lies in the use of one high-scoring tile combined with easy-to-place consonants and vowels.
Strategic Use of Extol in Scrabble
Why It’s a Smart Word to Know
There are several reasons why extol is a smart word to play if the opportunity arises during a game:
- Moderate Length: At five letters, it’s long enough to access double or triple word scores but short enough to fit in tight spots.
- High-Value Letter: The X is worth 8 points, one of the most valuable tiles in the game.
- Common Letters: Aside from the X, the other letters are easy to work with and often appear in many racks.
- Good for Hooks: It can be hooked with suffixes or prefixes like extols or extolled.
Even if you’re not placing it on a premium square, the word extol offers a great point return with minimal risk. It’s also less likely to be challenged by opponents, given its presence in reputable dictionaries.
Tips for Playing Extol Successfully
How to Turn It into a High-Scoring Move
Knowing a word is playable is one thing, but using it effectively is another. Here are some ways to make the most out of extol in Scrabble:
- Use Premium Squares: Try placing the X on a double or triple letter tile to boost your score dramatically.
- Add Suffixes: Words like extols and extolled are also valid, and can allow you to use more tiles and score additional points.
- Parallel Plays: If you can build extol along the side of another word, you might score with both simultaneously.
- Letter Dumping: When you’re stuck with an X and no other high-value options, extol can be a useful and elegant solution.
Always think ahead and consider your remaining tiles. If extol clears tough letters and opens up the board, it could give you a crucial edge in the game.
Scrabble Word Building with the Letter X
Why Words with X Are Important
The letter X is one of the highest-value tiles in Scrabble, worth 8 points. But many players struggle to use it effectively because it rarely fits into common word structures. Learning a few mid-length words that include X, like extol, can be a game-changer.
Here are a few other useful Scrabble words that include the letter X:
- Axle– 11 points
- Next– 11 points
- Exit– 11 points
- Oxen– 11 points
- Flex– 14 points
As you can see, extol falls into a similar scoring range, making it one of the more practical and rewarding options when playing with X.
Using Vocabulary to Strengthen Your Game
Why Learning Words Like Extol Helps
Improving your Scrabble vocabulary doesn’t require memorizing thousands of obscure words. Instead, focusing on medium-length, high-scoring words especially those with uncommon letters like X, Q, or Z can give you a major advantage. Extol is the perfect example of a word that’s slightly unusual but still highly playable and relevant.
Building your mental word list with terms like this prepares you for different game scenarios, whether you’re trying to make a comeback or simply stretch out a lead.
Common Misunderstandings in Scrabble Word Validity
Not Every Unfamiliar Word Is Invalid
Many players miss out on high-scoring opportunities because they hesitate to use words they don’t commonly hear. But Scrabble rewards those who take the time to learn and explore. Just because a word like extol doesn’t show up in casual conversation doesn’t mean it’s off-limits. It’s in the dictionary, and it’s a solid choice for scoring and strategy.
On the flip side, it’s also important not to assume all fancy words are allowed. Always cross-check questionable words with a valid Scrabble word list if you’re unsure during a casual match.
So, is extol a Scrabble word? Absolutely. Not only is it valid according to the Official Scrabble Players Dictionary, but it’s also a strategically smart option thanks to its use of the letter X and its flexible five-letter structure. Whether you’re a casual player looking to add new tools to your vocabulary or a competitive Scrabble enthusiast aiming for maximum point potential, extol is a word worth knowing. Next time you’re holding an X and unsure what to do, consider extol it could be your winning move.