Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-10-03
LIPS → MESS
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects LIPS to MESS in 7 steps. This 4-letter word puzzle challenges your vocabulary and logic skills. Can you find the shortest path?
Play This PuzzleStep-by-Step Solution
Step 1
LIPS → TIPS
Change the 1st letter L to T, turning LIPS into TIPS.
Step 2
TIPS → TOPS
Change the 2nd letter I to O, turning TIPS into TOPS.
Step 3
TOPS → TOYS
Change the 3rd letter P to Y, turning TOPS into TOYS.
Step 4
TOYS → BOYS
Change the 1st letter T to B, turning TOYS into BOYS.
Step 5
BOYS → BOSS
Change the 3rd letter Y to S, turning BOYS into BOSS.
Step 6
BOSS → MOSS
Change the 1st letter B to M, turning BOSS into MOSS.
Step 7
MOSS → MESS
Change the 2nd letter O to E, turning MOSS into MESS.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 3, pos 2: 2, pos 3: 2. Most-changed position: 1 (3).
Change sequence: 1, 2, 3, 1, 3, 1, 2.
Letter mix: V→V 2, V→C 0, C→V 0, C→C 5.
Word stats: 8 words, 10 unique letters. Start/target share 1 position.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from LIPS to MESS?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from LIPS to MESS takes exactly 7 steps.
Q: Any tips for today's puzzle?
A: This puzzle involves 4-letter words. A good strategy is to look for common intermediate words or focus on changing vowels first.
Q: Where can I play past Word Ladder puzzles?
A: You can access our complete archive by clicking the "Puzzle Archive" link at the bottom of the page.
Word Definitions
LIPS
TIPS
TOPS
TOYS
BOYS
BOSS
MOSS
MESS