Word Search Maker
Type your own words, or use a themed list, and get a clear, large-print word search in seconds. Play it on screen or print it — with or without the answer key. Free, no sign-up.
Word search
Playing with the keyboard: press the Tab key until the grid is focused, use the arrow keys to move, press Enter to choose the first letter, move to the last letter and press Enter again. Escape clears. Or drag with the mouse, or swipe on a touch screen.
Grid: —
Building your puzzle…
One moment
Words to find
How to play
- Words hide across, down, backwards and on diagonals — choose which directions you want.
- To mark a word on screen: drag or swipe across its letters, or tap the first letter then tap the last letter.
- Prefer the keyboard? Focus the grid, move with the arrow keys and press Enter on the first and last letters.
- Found words stay highlighted, underlined and crossed off the list — and can be read aloud.
- For paper play, press Print with answer key: the puzzle prints on one page and the answers on the next, using the same word list.
Making it easy to read
- High-contrast letters on a clean white grid.
- Use Large or Extra large letters for bigger text on paper.
- Choose Easy for a smaller grid with simpler word directions.
- Everything prints in plain black ink — no background colours, no wasted toner.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a word search?
Type 8 to 20 words, one per line, then press Generate puzzle. The finished puzzle appears instantly, ready to play or print.
Can I print the puzzle with the answers?
Yes. Press Print with answer key. The puzzle and word list print on the first page and the answer key on a second page, listing every word with its starting row, column and direction — the same words you played with on screen.
Is the word search generator really free?
Yes. All generators and printable games on Golden Word Games are free for personal and classroom enjoyment. No account, no sign-up.
How do I mark a word I found?
Drag or swipe across the letters, tap the first letter then the last letter, or use the arrow keys and the Enter key. Matching words light up on the grid, are underlined, and are crossed off the word list.
Themed word search pages
Each theme below has its own page with the complete word list, hints for every word, and one-click links into the generator.
- Music of the 1960s — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Music of the 1970s — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Music of the 1980s — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Classic Movies — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Classic TV Shows — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Famous People — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Retro Foods — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Holidays — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Classic Sports — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.
- Classic Cars — full word list with hints (16 words), play and print links.