Scrabble Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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scrabble
[ˈskræbəl ]
Definition
board game
Scrabble is a word game in which players use lettered tiles to create words in a crossword fashion on a game board. Each letter has a corresponding point value, and the aim is to score the most points by forming valid words with the highest possible values.
Synonyms
crossword, letter game, word game.
Examples of usage
- We played Scrabble all night long.
- She is an expert at Scrabble and never loses.
- I enjoy Scrabble because it challenges my vocabulary.
- They set up a Scrabble tournament at the community center.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The game was created in 1938 by Alfred Butts, who combined elements of chess and crossword puzzles.
- Originally called 'Lexiko,' it was rebranded to 'Scrabble' after some amateur success and re-packet in 1948.
- The game gained popularity after being sold to game company Selchow and Righter in the 1950s.
Pop Culture
- Scrabble has appeared in numerous TV shows and movies, often showcased as a classic family game.
- In the 1980s, the game was added to the National Toy Hall of Fame, recognizing its enduring popularity.
- World tournaments held for the game attract skilled players from across various countries, showcasing the competitive side of Scrabble.
Science
- Research shows playing Scrabble can improve vocabulary and cognitive skills, including memory and problem-solving.
- Linguists often study the game to understand how players use language creatively under pressure.
- The distribution of letter frequencies in the game reflects trends seen in real-world language use.
Psychology
- Playing Scrabble has been linked to enhanced social interaction, helping strengthen friendships and family bonds.
- Competing in Scrabble can create feelings of excitement and stress, which researchers use to study competitive behavior.
- Strategic planning in gameplay helps develop critical thinking as players must weigh risks against potential rewards.
Literature
- Several authors have mentioned or referenced the game in their works, symbolizing creativity and wordplay.
- In some novels, characters use Scrabble to build relationships or resolve conflicts, illustrating the game's role in human connection.
- The game has inspired various forms of literature, including guides on language and the art of word creation.
Origin of 'scrabble'
The game of Scrabble was created in 1938 by Alfred Butts, an architect from New York City. He originally named it 'Criss-Cross Words'. Butts wanted to create a game that combined luck and skill, and he based the letter distribution on the frequency of letters in the English language. Initially, the game failed to attract attention until 1948 when James Brunot, a businessman, saw its potential and began production under the name 'Scrabble'. The name is derived from the word scrabble, meaning to scratch frantically. Throughout the years, Scrabble has evolved into a global phenomenon, being translated into numerous languages and dominating the board game market.