UNIQUE

u-n-i-q-u-e

Noun

Intermediate Level

6 Letters

Quick Definition

UNIQUE A word used in Scrabble and other word games.

Scrabble Points

Points in Scrabble

Base tile values • No multipliers applied

Definition & Meaning

UNIQUE is a valid word in Scrabble and other word games. This word can earn you valuable points due to its letter composition.

Etymology & Origin

The etymology of UNIQUE varies based on its origin and usage in the English language.

Did You Know?

•The Q (10 points) in UNIQUE makes it particularly valuable

•High-value letters should be saved for double or triple letter score squares when possible

•UNIQUE can be a game-winning play when used strategically

•The word "unique" appears in over 50 million trademark applications, ironically making it quite common

Usage Examples

""I played UNIQUE on a triple word score and earned a huge number of points.""

""UNIQUE is one of those words that can really boost your score in word games.""

"The artist's unique style made her paintings instantly recognizable in any gallery."

"DNA analysis confirmed that the specimen was unique to that particular ecosystem."

Letter Analysis

Letter Distribution

U (1 pts)

N (1 pts)

I (1 pts)

Q (10 pts)

E (1 pts)

Total base points: 15 (Scrabble)

Vowels: 4 | Consonants: 2

Game Strategy

Q Without QU Pattern

UNIQUE is valuable because it uses Q in an unusual position—not at the beginning with QU, but in the middle. This makes it useful when you have a Q but limited board options for traditional QU placements.

Vowel-Heavy Structure

With 4 vowels (U, I, U, E) and only 2 consonants, UNIQUE helps balance a vowel-heavy rack. The double U is particularly useful for using up excess U tiles while scoring well.

Extension Potential

While "uniquely" isn't valid in most word games, UNIQUE can form UNIQUES (plural). The -IQUE ending also creates opportunities for parallel plays with words ending in -QUE.