Is HO a Scrabble Word? Yes! (Score 5 Points)
Yes, HO is a valid Scrabble word worth 5 points in both TWL and SOWPODS. It's an exclamation used to express surprise, triumph, or to call attention — as in "westward ho!" At 5 points, HO is one of the highest-scoring 2-letter words and extends into dozens of common words.
HO
5 points · H=4, O=1 · An exclamation of surprise or triumph
Valid in both TWL (Tournament Word List) and SOWPODS (Collins Scrabble Words). HO is a versatile exclamation that's been in use since Middle English. Its high H-value and many extensions make it a tournament favourite.
5
Points
Both
TWL + SOWPODS
2 H-tiles
In the Bag
7+
Extensions
HO Extensions: Massive Flexibility
HO Strategy: When to Play It
Premium H placement: H is worth 4 points — on a DLS that's 8 from one tile. Play HO with H on the bonus square for maximum value. On a DWS, HO scores 10 points from 2 tiles.
Setup for HOX: HOX scores 13 points — excellent for 3 tiles. If you have an X on your rack, play HO first and extend to HOX next turn. The X on DLS makes it 21 points.
Front hooks: HO takes front hooks: RHO (6pts), WHO (9pts), PHO (8pts). WHO at 9 points is an excellent hook that your opponent might not spot — leaving you to capitalize.
💡 Extension Power
HO has one of the largest extension families of any 2-letter word. HOB, HOD, HOG, HOP, HOT, HOW, HOX, HOY — plus longer words like HOIST, HONEY, HORSE, HOUSE. Playing HO almost guarantees you can extend it later.
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