Words ending in “Z” are like the ace in the hole of word games. They are rare and can give your word play a bit of dazzle. In Last Letter First, they are even better: they score big, break patterns, and leave your opponent scrambling. Ready to add some zing to your game? Here are ten z‑ending words that pack a punch. They are complete with definitions, scores, and sentences.
How Scoring Works in Last Letter First
Just a quick refresher before we dive deeper into Z‑land: In Last Letter First, every letter in the alphabet has a point value based on how often it appears in everyday English. Common letters like A, E, and T are worth 1 point, while rarer, more powerful letters like J, Q, X, and Z score you 8 to 10 points each. You can find the full breakdown on our FAQ page.
Your total word score is the sum of all the individual letter values. So, every choice counts. Playing short, strategic words with high-value letters can earn more points than long, low-value words.
So what about ending a word with a Z? That’s like sticking a mic drop on your turn. With a Z clocking in at a whopping 10 points, it is one of the most powerful ways to close a word. Use it right, and you are not just finishing the round; you are launching your score into orbit.
Need help finding high-value words? Our top ten words ending in Z are hand-picked for their scoring power and uniqueness.
1. Pizzazz – 45 points
Definition: Energy, style, or flair.
Example: The old building was renovated and given a modern pizzazz with bright colors and unique architectural features.
2. Whizz – 29 points
Definition: To move very fast or to succeed easily; a clever person.
Example: She whizzed through her homework so that she could go outside to play with her friends.
3. Jazz – 29 points
Definition: A genre of music; lively activity.
Example: The saxophone player in the jazz band really hit the notes.
4. Buzz – 24 points
Definition: A low humming sound or excited chatter.
Example: There’s a buzz in the office because the boss just quit!
5. Fizz – 25 points
Definition: Bubbles, effervescence, excitement.
Example: The soda’s fizz tickled my nose and made me sneeze.
6. Quiz – 22 points
Definition: A short test or a curious, eccentric act.
Example: Pop quiz! What’s your favorite Z‑word right now?
7. Blitz – 18 points
Definition: A sudden, intense attack or fast effort.
Example: The television commercials released last week are one element of this marketing blitz.
8. Fritz – 17 points
Definition: To be in a state of disrepair or malfunction
Example: My printer is on the fritz, but at least I could email the document to my editor.
9. Waltz – 17 points
Definition: A graceful dance
Example: He learned the basic steps to the waltz for the wedding dance.
10. Topaz – 16 points
Definition: A yellow‑to‑brown gemstone
Example: Her necklace had her birthstone on it, a beautiful topaz.
Why Z‑Ending Words Rule in Last Letter First
There is just something satisfying about ending a word with Z. It is bold, surprising, and wildly effective on the scoreboard. Whether you are flexing your vocabulary or just trying to outwit your opponent, Z words are power plays in disguise.
- High-scoring endings: That final Z is worth 10 points, instantly boosting your round score.
- Disruptive finishers: Opponents rarely expect a Z ending, giving you time to plan your next move.
- Vocabulary flex: Playing words like pizzazz or whizz shows you’ve got the word nerd cred and the strategy to match.
- Confidence booster: Nailing a tricky Z word at the end of a round feels like sticking the landing on a word gymnastics routine. It is a satisfying victory.
Looking to dominate the board? Combine these Z‑enders with high-scoring starters, and you will be chaining wins like a pro. For more strategic plays, check out our Z‑word guide or explore Y‑word high scorers next.
“Z” Final Thoughts
Words ending in Z are not just quirky … they are powerful. Each one brings flair, strategy, and serious points. Whether you plop down jazz, blitz past your opponent, or finish strong with pizzazz, you are playing smart and stylish.
So next round? Aim for a Z. Drop your favorite from this list. Then another. And watch how the spotlight shifts … right onto your score.
