Test: Silent t words
Test yourself using the Listen and Spell test.
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fasten
hasten
glisten
listen
moisten
apostle
thistle
whistle
wrestle
mortgage
Christmas
About this word list ▼
About this word list ▲
Watch out for the silent t in these words!
The origins of silent t words can be traced back to the history of the English language itself. Many of these words have their roots in Old English, where the t was actually pronounced.
However, as the language evolved over centuries, and absorbed influences from French and Latin, the pronunciation of the t gradually faded away. The evolution of language isn't only about adding new words but also about adapting existing ones to new phonetic patterns.
Use the Look, Say, Cover, Write, Check activity to learn these words. When you 'say' each word, pronounce the t like in Old English to help you remember it's there.
This word list was created by Spellzone. View more Spellzone course lists or curriculum word lists.
Learn more in Unit 22. Words with silent letters e.g. wrap, comb, sign, knight