Free Online Word Search
Find hidden words in a letter grid. Words can be hidden horizontally, vertically, or diagonally. Click or drag to select a word when you spot it. A fun vocabulary game for all ages — no download needed.
How to Play Word Search
- A list of words to find is shown beside or below the grid.
- Scan the grid horizontally (left–right or right–left), vertically (up or down), or diagonally.
- Click the first letter of a word, hold, and drag to the last letter to highlight it.
- Found words are crossed off the list and highlighted on the grid.
- Find all words to complete the puzzle. Your time is tracked so you can beat your best.
Difficulty Levels
- Easy — smaller grid, shorter words, no diagonal or reversed entries. Good for younger players.
- Medium — larger grid with diagonal words mixed in. A step up for regular players.
- Hard — full grid with words in all eight directions including reversed diagonals. Tests sharp eyes.
Word Search Tips & Strategy
- Start with the shortest or most unusual words on the list — they are easier to spot against the noise.
- Scan each row and column systematically rather than searching at random.
- Look for the first letter of a word, then check all eight directions from that cell.
- Double letters and uncommon letter combinations (Q, X, Z) stand out — use them as anchors.
- On hard mode, check for words spelled backwards — a common hiding trick.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Are words ever spelled backwards?
- On medium and hard difficulty, yes — words can be reversed horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
- Can I play Word Search on my phone?
- Yes, touch dragging works on all mobile and tablet browsers.
- Is a new puzzle generated each time?
- Yes, the grid and word list are freshly generated every game.