Words Ending in AB
AB endings are short, punchy, and satisfying to play. CAB, DAB, FAB, GAB, JAB, LAB, NAB, TAB -- the 3-letter AB words read like a percussion solo. They're also gold in word games because they're easy to build on. Stick an S on the end and you've got CABS, DABS, JABS. Front-load them with letters and you get REHAB, PREFAB, TAXICAB. The word BAOBAB (that enormous African tree) is a personal favorite -- it uses the AB ending twice and scores 12 points in Scrabble.
In crosswords, CAB and TAB appear constantly because they're short, common, and use frequent letters. JAB is another regular, often clued as "Quick punch" or "Vaccination shot." CONFAB (meaning an informal chat) shows up in medium-difficulty grids. For harder puzzles, watch for MIHRAB (a niche in a mosque wall) and SCARAB (the Egyptian beetle amulet). One tip: if your crossword has _AB with an unknown first letter, run through the alphabet mentally -- most consonants form valid words. For related patterns, explore words ending in ER or words ending in ED. High-scoring tile lovers should see words starting with J for JAB and its extensions.
FAQ
What unusual words end in AB?
MIHRAB (a prayer niche), SCARAB (an Egyptian beetle), BAOBAB (a massive tree), PREFAB (a premade structure), and CONFAB (a casual chat) are the most interesting ones. NAWAB (an Indian title of nobility) also appears in word games. For more unusual endings, check words ending in J and words ending in X.
Is FAB a valid Scrabble word?
Yes, FAB is valid in Scrabble and scores 8 points. It's informal for "fabulous" and was popularized in the 1960s with the Beatles (the "Fab Four"). DRAB, GRAB, and CRAB all score similarly and offer more board flexibility. See words starting with D for DRAB extensions like DRABLY.