If the letters in the alphabet could talk, it’s likely the letter A would be proud of the position it holds. It’s the line leader of the alphabet, the letter so beloved that it has even been chosen to represent the best (A-list) and the brightest (A+).
There are many words that start with A that you can use to boost your score, whether you’re playing against one opponent or as many as ten. But what about words ending in A? We decided to put together a top ten list of words ending in A so you can see for yourself the dynamic exit you’ll make by using the letter A!
10. Fajita = 16 Points
If you want to add some sizzle to your Last Letter First score, play the word “fajita.” A fajita is a Mexican dish that includes your choice of marinated meat, sautéed peppers and onions, flavorful spices, and citrus juices. A fajita is often presented in a hot cast-iron skillet, and it’s a popular menu item at Mexican restaurants.
Example: I’d like to order a fajita with guacamole and sour cream on the side.
9. Vexilla = 17 Points
Vexilla is plural for “vexillum,” which is a square banner that was commonly used as a military standard in ancient Rome. In zoology, “vexillum” describes the weblike part of a feather.
Example: The Roman soldiers rallied around their vexilla during battle.
8. Hypoxia = 22 Points
Hypoxia is among three other words ending in A that will earn you a total of 22 points. According to the Cleveland Clinic, hypoxia is “low levels of oxygen in your body tissues. It causes symptoms like confusion, restlessness, difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and bluish skin.”
Example: The hiker became aware of the threat of hypoxia as he reached higher and higher altitudes.
7. Britzka = 22 Points
A britzka — worth 22 points in Last Letter First — is a type of horse-drawn carriage. It originated in Eastern Europe, and one of its most distinguishing characteristics was its folding top, which made traveling more comfortable.
Example: As I rode in the britzka, I enjoyed listening to the horse’s hooves clopping rhythmically against the cobblestone streets.
6. Bazooka = 22 Points
When it comes to words ending in A, “bazooka” is as fun to say as it is to spell. You might even be a fan of Bazooka bubble gum; each piece comes wrapped in a little comic strip. In military-speak, a bazooka is a rocket launcher that was widely used in WWII to destroy tanks and armored vehicles.
Example: Want a piece of Bazooka bubble gum?
5. Zelkova = 23 Points
Zelkova is a genus of six species of deciduous trees that belong to the elm family. Native to Europe and Asia, these dense trees tolerate urban conditions well since they are naturally resistant to insects and disease.
Example: The tree enthusiast took photos of the Japanese zelkova and marveled at its colorful foliage.
4. Pizzeria = 28 Points
When it comes to words ending in A, we started with fajitas, mentioned Bazooka bubble gum, and now here we are with pizzeria! A pizzeria is a restaurant that specializes in making pizza (and usually other doughy dishes), whether you’re interested in snagging a slice or a whole pie. Count on “pizzeria” to put 28 points on your plate.
Example: Let’s go to the pizzeria for dinner!
3. Hypercholesterolemia = 36 Points
In the medical world, hypercholesterolemia is a cause for concern. Being diagnosed with this condition means that your blood contains high levels of cholesterol, which can raise your risk for a heart attack or stroke. While you want to avoid hypercholesterolemia in terms of your health, don’t avoid it while playing Last Letter First; this 20-letter word is ready and willing to work in your favor!
Example: My doctor diagnosed me with hypercholesterolemia after reviewing my bloodwork results.
2. Zyzzyva = 43 Points
In order to play “zyzzyva,” you must wait patiently for your opponent to send you a word that ends in “Z.” Once you get that word, rely on this word to earn you a whopping 43 points. What’s a zyzzyva, anyway? Well, it’s a type of weevil, and if you look it up online, it might give you the heebie-jeebies!
Example: Bugs do give me the heebie-jeebies, so I’ll just take your word for it when it comes to the zyzzyva . . .
1. Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia = 61 Points
A phobia is an extreme fear of something, whether it be a person, place, object, animal, or a certain type of feeling. You can browse an extensive list of phobias here; all these words ending in A can be useful to you when you’re playing Last Letter First. If you want to earn a massive amount of points, look no further than a phobia that describes the fear of long words.
Example: It’s pretty wild that the phobia used to describe the fear of long words, Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia, is 36 letters long!
The Mighty A (Because It’s Not Just for Apple!)
Now that you’ve been introduced to ten new words ending in A, it’s time to get ready to use them! Start a new game of Last Letter First on your desktop, iPad, or smartphone. It will bring you a sense of excitement and happiness, also known as…euphoria! (See what we did there?)
