Word Ladder Daily
Archive
Date: 2026-11-16
MESA → SAFE
Today's Word Ladder puzzle connects MESA to SAFE 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
MESA → MESS
Change the 4th letter A to S, turning MESA into MESS.
Step 2
MESS → MASS
Change the 2nd letter E to A, turning MESS into MASS.
Step 3
MASS → BASS
Change the 1st letter M to B, turning MASS into BASS.
Step 4
BASS → BASE
Change the 4th letter S to E, turning BASS into BASE.
Step 5
BASE → CASE
Change the 1st letter B to C, turning BASE into CASE.
Step 6
CASE → CAFE
Change the 3rd letter S to F, turning CASE into CAFE.
Step 7
CAFE → SAFE
Change the 1st letter C to S, turning CAFE into SAFE.
Puzzle Insights
Change positions: pos 1: 3, pos 2: 1, pos 3: 1, pos 4: 2. Most-changed position: 1 (3).
Change sequence: 4, 2, 1, 4, 1, 3, 1.
Letter mix: V→V 1, V→C 1, C→V 1, C→C 4.
Word stats: 8 words, 7 unique letters. Start/target share 0 positions.
FAQ
Q: What is the shortest path from MESA to SAFE?
A: The optimal solution for the Word Ladder from MESA to SAFE 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
MESA
MESS
MASS
BASS
BASE
CASE
CAFE
SAFE