The word “id” is indeed a valid word in Scrabble, but its acceptance depends on the official word list used in your game. In North America, the official Scrabble dictionary is the “TWL” (Tournament Word List) and the Official Scrabble Players Dictionary (OSPD). Internationally, the accepted word list is Collins Scrabble Words (CSW). Both lists recognize “id” as a valid word, though there are some nuances worth noting.
“Id” is a short, two-letter word that originates from psychology, where it refers to the part of the mind in Freudian theory that contains instinctual drives and desires. The term “id” comes from Latin, meaning “it” or “that,” and has been adopted into English to denote the unconscious part of the psyche. Despite its obscure origin, the word is well-established and recognized in English language references.
In Scrabble, “id” carries a point value of 2 points, with the letter “I” worth 1 point and “D” worth 2 points. Its brevity and low point value make it a useful word for fitting into tight spaces on the board, especially since it can be played parallel to other words or as part of longer words.
It’s important to note that while “id” is valid in both the TWL/OSPD and Collins Scrabble Words, some other two-letter words are accepted in only one of these lists. For example, “xi” (a Greek letter) is valid in Collins but not in TWL, while “qi” (a Chinese concept for vital energy) is accepted in both. Therefore, players should confirm the word list they are using before playing.
For those interested in similar short words, here are a few other valid two-letter Scrabble words that are commonly used:
- “qi” – a Chinese concept of vital energy, worth 11 points.
- “xi” – the 14th letter of the Greek alphabet, worth 9 points.
- “jo” – a sweetheart or beloved person, worth 8 points.
In summary, “id” is a valid Scrabble word in both North American and international word lists. Its psychological origin and low point value make it a handy word for strategic play, especially in tight situations on the board.