DAM is a barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level, forming a reservoir. In word games, this 3-letter word is valuable for its versatility and scoring potential.
Yes. DAM is in the Scrabble-style word list used by our tools and scores 6 points in Scrabble, 7 in Words With Friends and 6 in Wordfeud (base tile values, no board multipliers). Always check the dictionary your game uses (NWL, Collins or the WWF list) before playing.
| Letter | D | A | M | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scrabble | 2 | 1 | 3 | 6 |
| Words With Friends | 2 | 1 | 4 | 7 |
| Wordfeud | 2 | 1 | 3 | 6 |
DAM has multiple meanings: primarily, it refers to a barrier built across a waterway to control the flow of water. Dams create reservoirs, generate hydroelectric power, and prevent flooding. The word also refers to the female parent of an animal, especially horses. In engineering, dams are massive structures that harness water resources for human benefit. From ancient irrigation dams to modern hydroelectric giants like the Hoover Dam, these structures have shaped civilizations. The word captures both human ingenuity and natural resource management. Common uses of DAM: Water barrier: Structure holding back water flow Animal breeding: Female parent in livestock Verb form: To block or obstruct flow Engineering: Hydroelectric power generation
The word dam comes from Middle Dutch dam, originally meaning "barrier" or "embankment." This Germanic root is related to the German Damm and reflects the Netherlands' long history of water management through dikes and dams. The animal breeding sense (female parent) has a different origin, coming from dame, meaning "lady" or "mother." This usage dates to the 14th century and remains standard in animal husbandry. The engineering sense emerged as water control became crucial for agriculture and later for power generation. Interestingly, Amsterdam gets its name from a dam on the Amstel River, showing how fundamental these structures were to Dutch civilization.
Anagrams: MAD
Hooks: no front hooks; back DAME, DAMN, DAMP, DAMS.
Words inside DAM: 4 shorter words can be made from these letters – highest scoring: MADAMMAAD. See all words from DAM.