Words Ending in VIE: A Handful Worth Knowing
The -VIE ending is one of the smallest in the dictionary, with only about eight words to its name. VIE (to compete) is the most common, and MOVIE is the one everyone knows — though MOVIE's -VIE isn't really a suffix but part of a shortened form of "moving picture." The rest are deep cuts: CAVIE (a hen coop in Scottish dialect), SHAVIE (a trick or prank, also Scottish), SPAVIE (a horse disease affecting the hock joint), and OUTVIE (to surpass in competition).
VIE is a crossword staple, typically clued as "compete" or "contend." At only 3 letters and 6 Scrabble points, it's modest in scoring but crucial for board positioning — the V is worth 4 points and fits into spots where heavier words can't reach. OUTVIE is the strategic gem here: at 6 letters and 9 points, it's an unusual extension that most opponents won't challenge because it sounds right even if they haven't seen it before.
For players who like mastering small word groups, the -VIE set is easy to memorize in a single sitting. Pair this knowledge with words starting with C for crossword versatility, or explore words starting with J and words starting with Z for other high-value tile strategies. Fans of Scottish and dialect vocabulary will find more gems at words starting with D.
FAQ
Is OUTVIE a valid Scrabble word?
Yes, OUTVIE is accepted in standard Scrabble dictionaries. It means to surpass someone in a competition, and it conjugates normally: OUTVIED, OUTVIES, OUTVYING. It's a handy way to use the V tile with common letters. See also words ending in TION for other extension patterns.
Where do the Scottish -VIE words come from?
CAVIE (hen coop), SHAVIE (prank), and SPAVIE (horse ailment) entered English dictionaries through Scots dialect. They're derived from Old French and Middle English roots and remain valid in international Scrabble (SOWPODS). For more borrowed words, check words starting with Q which includes many foreign-origin terms.