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RESONATOR

r-e-s-o-n-a-t-o-r

Noun
Advanced Level
9 Letters

Quick Definition

RESONATOR is a scientific 9-letter word worth 9 points in Scrabble. Despite using only 1-point tiles, it's a valuable bingo candidate that can earn you the 50-point bonus for using all 7 tiles.

Scrabble Points

9

Points in Scrabble

Base tile values • No multipliers applied

Definition & Meaning

A RESONATOR is a device or system that exhibits resonance or resonant behavior - it naturally oscillates at certain frequencies with greater amplitude. Examples include acoustic resonators in musical instruments and electronic resonators in circuits. In word games, RESONATOR is remarkable for being composed entirely of common 1-point letters, making it easier to form from typical rack combinations. This 9-letter word offers excellent bingo potential, transforming a modest 9 base points into 59 points when you play all 7 tiles from your rack.

Etymology & Origin

The word "resonator" comes from the Latin "resonare," meaning "to sound again" or "echo," combined with the agent suffix "-tor" (one who/that which). "Resonare" itself breaks down to "re-" (again) plus "sonare" (to sound), from "sonus" (sound). First used in English in the 1860s during advances in acoustics and physics, RESONATOR perfectly captures the concept of amplifying or prolonging sound through sympathetic vibration. This scientific heritage makes it a sophisticated addition to any Scrabble player's vocabulary.

Did You Know?

RESONATOR uses only common 1-point tiles, making it easier to form than words with rare letters

The -ATOR suffix is extremely productive in English, appearing in dozens of valid Scrabble words

RESONATOR contains multiple common 7-letter stems like SENATOR, TREASON, and ATONERS

Usage Examples

""I noticed TREASON on my rack, drew an O and R, and suddenly had RESONATOR for a 59-point bingo!""

""The beauty of RESONATOR is that it uses common tiles - no need to wait for a Q, X, or Z.""

Letter Analysis

Letter Distribution

R (1 pts)
2x
E (1 pts)
1x
S (1 pts)
1x
O (1 pts)
2x
N (1 pts)
1x
A (1 pts)
1x
T (1 pts)
1x

Total base points: 9 (Scrabble)

Vowels: 4 | Consonants: 5

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