Word Search Maker
Make your own word search puzzle in seconds. Type your words, choose a grid size, and play it online, print it with an answer key, or send a link. Free, no sign-up.
My Word Search
Find the words from the list in the grid. Drag from the first letter to the last — or tap the first letter, then the last. Words run in the directions you chose.
Find these words
- apple
- banana
- cherry
- grape
- kiwi
- lemon
- mango
- melon
- orange
- peach
- pear
- plum
How to make a word search
- Type a title, then your words, one per line or separated by commas. Names and short phrases work too.
- Pick a grid size. 10 × 10 suits young kids and short lists; 15 × 15 or larger fits 20 or more words.
- Choose directions. Across and down are always on. Add diagonal or backwards words to make the puzzle harder.
- Press Make my puzzle. Not happy with the layout? Press Shuffle for a new grid with the same words.
- Play it here, print it (with or without the answer key), or copy the link to send it to someone else.
Ideas for your own word search
- Classroom: this week's spelling or vocabulary list, science terms, or the names of everyone in class.
- Parties: baby shower, bridal shower, birthday or retirement party, filled with names and in-jokes.
- Seniors and activity groups: large grids with familiar words, printed in big type for group sessions.
- Church and clubs: Bible names, hymn titles or club terms for newsletters and bulletins.
- Holidays: a family Thanksgiving or Christmas puzzle with relatives' names hidden inside.
Printing tips
- Printouts are black and white and fit both US Letter and A4 paper.
- Print the answer key separately so you can hand out the puzzle and keep the key.
- For older eyes, use a smaller grid (10 × 10 or 12 × 12): each letter prints larger.
FAQ
Is this word search maker free?
Yes. Making, playing, printing and sharing puzzles is free, with no sign-up and no watermark beyond a small tofuplay.com line at the bottom of the printout.
Can I use the puzzles in my classroom or at an event?
Yes. Print as many copies as you like for classes, homework, parties, church groups, senior centers and newsletters.
How many words can I add?
Up to 40 words, 2 to 20 letters each. Choose a bigger grid for longer lists or longer words. If a word cannot fit, the maker tells you which one so you can shorten it or pick a larger grid.
Are my words saved or shared with anyone?
No. Your words stay in your browser. When you copy a share link, the words are stored inside the link itself, so only people you send it to can open that puzzle.
Can I print an answer key?
Yes. Use "Print answer key" to print the same puzzle with every hidden word circled.
Can spaces and punctuation be used?
You can type phrases like "Happy Birthday" or names like "Mrs. Lee". The word list shows them as typed, while the grid uses only the letters (HAPPYBIRTHDAY).