Middle Word

Find the word that falls alphabetically between two others. You have ten guesses, with each answer helping you narrow the search.

How to play

Start with two words and find the common word hidden between them in alphabetical order. After each guess, the game tells you whether the answer comes before or after your word, and how many dictionary words separate them. Use that information to narrow the gap and find the answer within ten guesses.

• The answer is a common word in its basic dictionary form, rather than an obscure plural or a conjugated verb.
• Guesses that come before the answer appear above it; guesses that come after appear below.
• The number shows distance in the dictionary. It is based on spelling, not meaning.
• There is a new puzzle each day, with earlier puzzles in the archive.

Making each guess useful

When the gap is wide, try a word somewhere between your closest guesses. Even if it is not the answer, it can rule out a useful part of the dictionary. Once the gap is small, think of familiar words that fit the remaining letters. The answer will be an ordinary word, so there is no need to search for something obscure.

Keep your attention on spelling. “Apple” and “apply” sit close together alphabetically, even though their meanings have little in common. You can read the full guide in How to play Middle Word. For a puzzle that puts meanings and sentences to work, try Definitions.

Questions

What is Middle Word?

Middle Word is a free daily word game. You have ten guesses to find a common word that sits alphabetically between two given words. Each guess shows which direction to go and how far you are from the answer.

How do I win Middle Word?

Find the hidden word within ten guesses. Use each result to narrow the alphabetical range, then look for a common dictionary word that fits the remaining gap.

Does the meaning of a word matter?

No. The clues use alphabetical order only. Words can sit next to each other in the dictionary without having related meanings.