Spelling list: Short /u/ spelled u

The short /u/ sound is typically represented by the letter u. You can find this spelling in words such as under, umpire, and lunch. Understanding this spelling rule is essential for learning many English words.

Our collection of u words features everyday terms, like hungry and puppy, which illustrate how this sound functions in different contexts. Familiarising yourself with these examples will enhance your reading and writing skills.

under	England spent 64 years under Queen Victoria’s rule.
ugly	Grotesque can mean very ugly.
umpire	The umpire blew his whistle. *
uncle	Uncle Bill is my closest relative.
until	Wait here until I get back.
utter
button	I need to sew a button on my shirt.
drunk	The white milk is best drunk cold.
hungry	My dog is always hungry.
lunch	Have a biscuit with your lunch.
puppy	Your new puppy is adorable.
sudden	Her sudden death was a great tragedy.