Name word search maker

Tips for a great name word search

Finding your own name in a puzzle is a small thrill at any age. Teachers use a class-names word search on the first day of school to help students learn each other's names; families use one at reunions; hosts use guest names at birthday parties and showers.

Names are short, so a list of 15–25 names usually fits in a 14 × 14 or 15 × 15 grid. If two names share letters (like ANNA and HANNAH) one may be found inside the other — the maker warns you when a word can be read twice so you can adjust the list.

For a baby shower, list the baby name ideas or the guests' names; for a wedding, the couple, the wedding party and the venue. Add the title, print a copy per guest, and set a timer.

Recommended settings

• 15–25 names fit a 15 × 15 grid
• Warns about names inside names
• Great first-day icebreaker
• Add a title with the event name

How to make a word search

1. Type your words. Enter a title and your word list — one word or phrase per line, or separated by commas. Up to 60 words.
2. Choose the difficulty. Easy hides words across and down, Medium adds diagonals, Hard adds backwards words and Expert also uses decoy letters. Pick a grid size or leave it on Auto.
3. Check the answer key. Switch to the Answer key tab to see every word circled. Click New layout for a different arrangement of the same words.
4. Print, save or play. Click Print / Save PDF for the puzzle on page 1 and the answer key on page 2, download a PNG, or click Play online.

FAQ