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Showing posts with the label James Brunot

A New Era for Nigerian Scrabble: Building on a Legacy of Excellence

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The newly elected Nigerian Scrabble Federation President's official statement as he assumes office - Bright Idahosa  Over the years, Scrabble in Nigeria has evolved from a simple pastime into a celebrated sport that commands respect both nationally and internationally. This remarkable transformation did not happen overnight, it is the product of years of vision, dedication, and relentless effort from passionate individuals who have worked tirelessly to elevate the game we all love. Bright Idahosa NSF President  He further went on to appreciate the entire board:  At this moment, it is only fitting to recognize and appreciate everyone who has contributed to this inspiring journey: administrators, players, coaches, sponsors, and devoted enthusiasts. Your collective passion has built the strong foundation that today makes Nigeria a true powerhouse in the global Scrabble community. A special tribute goes to Engr. Toke Aka, the immediate past President of the Nigeria Scrabble F...

Why James Brunot Changed “Lexiko” to “Scrabble”

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When Alfred Mosher Butts first created his word game in the 1930s, he named it Lexiko. A title derived from “lexicon,” meaning a dictionary or collection of words. While the name reflected the game’s linguistic foundation, it lacked the marketing appeal that could capture the attention of a broader audience.  In 1948, James Brunot, a game enthusiast and entrepreneur, acquired the rights to Lexiko from Butts. He refined the design, adjusted the scoring system, and introduced a more colorful and organized board. However, Brunot recognized that the game needed more than mechanical improvements it needed a name that resonated with players emotionally and commercially. The result was “Scrabble,” a word meaning “to scratch or grope frantically.” This term perfectly captured the essence of the game for players energetically searching their minds and tiles to form meaningful words. The new name gave the game character, simplicity, and strong branding potential. Twas initially Criss crossed...