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About Shakespeare Words
Give your memory a workout with Shakespeare Words: 15 multiple-choice questions aimed at mixed difficulty, free to play right in your browser. Words and phrases coined by Shakespeare Expect to spend about 7 minutes; every question comes with an explanation, so you learn something even when you miss.
A few sample questions
1. Which common English word meaning 'murder by a hired killer' was coined by Shakespeare?
Answer: Assassination
2. Shakespeare invented the phrase 'break the ice.' In which play does it first appear?
Answer: The Taming of the Shrew
3. Which word meaning 'supremely beautiful or wonderful' is attributed to Shakespeare?
Answer: Gorgeous
4. The phrase 'wild goose chase' was first used by Shakespeare in which play?
Answer: Romeo and Juliet
5. Which word meaning 'to consciously choose not to appear or attend' was coined by Shakespeare?
Answer: Vanish
Frequently asked questions
How long does Shakespeare Words take?
Most players finish Shakespeare Words in about 7 minutes. You can pause between questions, replay it as often as you like, and there is no penalty for taking your time — answers are explained after you submit them.
What's a good follow-up after Shakespeare Words?
If you enjoyed this word games quiz, try the Daily Challenge — five rotating questions, refreshed every 24 hours, that count toward your streak. You can also use the Surprise Me button on the homepage to land on a different game type for variety.
Can I print Shakespeare Words?
Yes — use the Print button at the top of the page for a clean question sheet, or "Print with Answers" to make an answer key. Printed sheets work well for group play at home, in a classroom, or at a senior center.
Will I lose my progress if I close the page?
Your overall progress — XP, streaks, and badges — is saved in your browser automatically. A quiz that's underway restarts if you leave mid-game, but at about 7 minutes, Shakespeare Words fits comfortably in one sitting.
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