Yes, need is a Scrabble word!

Verb

1. Require as useful, just, or proper

2. Have need of

3. Have or feel a need for

Noun

1. A condition requiring relief

2. Anything that is necessary but lacking

3. The psychological feature that arouses an organism to action toward a desired goal; the reason for the action; that which gives purpose and direction to behavior

4. A state of extreme poverty or destitution