Can you use names or two-word clues in Codenames?
One-word names and one-word compounds like toothbrush are allowed, as long as they don't break the board-word rule. Multi-word names, titles, hyphenated words and two-word terms only count if your group agrees or the opposing spymaster allows them.
The rule:
In Codenames, one-word names and one-word compounds like toothbrush are allowed unless part of the clue is a word still showing. Multi-word names and titles need your group’s agreement or the opposing spymaster’s OK, and hyphenated words or two-word terms need the opposing spymaster’s OK.
| Clue type | Allowed? |
|---|---|
| One-word names | Yes |
| One-word compounds | Yes, unless part of it is a word still showing |
| Multi-word names and titles | If your group agrees (or the opposing spymaster allows it) |
| Common abbreviations | If your group agrees (or the opposing spymaster allows it) |
| Hyphenated words and two-word terms | If the opposing spymaster allows it |
Other limits:
- Play in English. Non-English words are fine only if they’ve become normal in English for your group.
- Letters and numbers are fine when they’re about meaning, not about spelling or where cards sit on the table.
Example:
Einstein is a valid clue for GENIUS and RELATIVITY. Albert Einstein, or a clue like ice cream, only works if your group or the other spymaster says it's OK.
Why players argue about it:
The basic rule says one word, but the rulebook adds exceptions for names, abbreviations and compounds that many groups never read.