kohf
Qoph (also spelled koph) is the nineteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, representing a sound similar to a deep 'k' produced at the back of the throat. In word games, it's one of the valuable Q-without-U words that can save you when you're stuck with a Q tile.
18
Points in Scrabble
Base tile values • No multipliers applied
💡 Pro Tip:
QOPH is worth 18 points in Scrabble! The Q (10) + O (1) + P (3) + H (4) makes it one of the highest-scoring 4-letter words, especially when placed on premium squares.
Qoph (also spelled koph, qof, or kuf) is the nineteenth letter of the Hebrew alphabet, one of the oldest continuously used alphabets in the world. In Hebrew, it represents a deep guttural 'k' sound produced at the back of the throat, similar to the Arabic letter qāf (ق).
In the Hebrew writing system, qoph has a numerical value of 100 and appears in many ancient texts including the Torah and Talmud. The letter's shape evolved from an ancient pictograph believed to represent either the back of the head, a monkey, or the eye of a needle, depending on which etymological theory you follow.
For word game enthusiasts, QOPH is particularly valuable for several reasons:
The word entered English through biblical and linguistic scholarship, as Hebrew letters are often referenced in theological texts, linguistic studies, and discussions of ancient alphabets. While not commonly used in everyday English, it remains an important term in religious studies, linguistics, and of course, competitive word games.
The letter qoph has an ancient and fascinating history dating back over 3,000 years. Its name comes from the Proto-Semitic word for "monkey" or "back of the head," though scholars debate its original pictographic meaning.
Timeline of qoph's evolution:
The letter's journey from ancient pictograph to modern Scrabble tile represents thousands of years of linguistic evolution. While Latin-based languages lost this sound distinction, Hebrew maintained it, and English borrowed the term for scholarly and religious purposes.
Sound distinction
Deeper than 'k', from throat
Modern Hebrew
Still actively used in speech
Religious texts
Essential for Torah reading
Transliteration
Q, K, or KH in English
Alternative Spellings
koph, qof, kuf
All accepted in various dictionaries
Plural Form
qophs
When discussing multiple instances
Related Hebrew Letters in English
Teaching alphabet and pronunciation
Transliteration of ancient texts
Semitic language studies
Mystical interpretations
"The Hebrew letter qoph represents a emphatic 'k' sound not found in English phonology."
"In ancient inscriptions, qoph appears frequently in Semitic names and religious terms."
"Students often confuse qoph with kaph, though they represent different sounds."
"I played QOPH on a double word score, using the P on a triple letter for 54 points!"
"Knowing QOPH helped me use my Q without waiting for a U tile."
"The championship game turned when she played QOPH across two premium squares."
Total base points: 18 (Scrabble)
Vowels: 1 | Consonants: 3
High-value letters: Q (10), H (4)
💡 Tip: Place Q on triple letter score for 30 points from just that tile!
No valid anagrams exist
Alternative spellings accepted:
Can be extended to:
Best plays with QOPH:
Pro tip: QOPH is often forgotten by opponents - use it to surprise!
In Jewish mysticism (Kabbalah), qoph represents holiness and the spiritual cycle. Its numerical value of 100 symbolizes completeness and divine perfection. The letter appears in many sacred Hebrew words and is considered deeply significant in religious texts and prayers.
Qoph is essential for biblical scholars, linguists studying Semitic languages, and archaeologists deciphering ancient inscriptions. Understanding the distinction between qoph and kaph is crucial for proper pronunciation and interpretation of Hebrew texts.
Unlike some ancient letters that have merged sounds, qoph maintains its distinct pronunciation in modern Israeli Hebrew. It appears in common words like "qof" (monkey), "qadima" (forward), and "qayitz" (summer), making it a living part of the language.
QOPH has become a beloved word among serious Scrabble players. Its inclusion in official dictionaries opened up new strategic possibilities for Q tiles. Tournament players often cite learning Hebrew letters as a turning point in their competitive careers.
No U after Q
QOPH is standard in Scrabble
PH not FF for the sound
Confusing with KAPH
Different Hebrew letters, different sounds
Pronunciation
It's "kohf" not "kwof"
Alternative spellings
KOPH, QOF, KUF all valid
Not knowing it exists
Many players never learn this word
Other valuable 4-letter words with Q in Scrabble
Practice unscrambling letters to find more high-scoring words like QOPH