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2014
SCHOOL PRONOUNCER GUIDE Spelling Only Edition
CONTENTS Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols
................................................................................
2 Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation and Language of
Origin.................................................... 3 Tips
for Spelling Bee
Officials.......................................................................................................4
Rules for Local Spelling
Bees........................................................................................................
6 Words 1225: Words from the 2014 School Spelling Bee Study List
........................................ 11 Words 226375:
Additional Words
...........................................................................................
51 Numerical Index of Spelling Words ..77
2013, Scripps National Spelling Bee
All rights reserved. This is copyrighted material. Do not post
to Web.
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page 2 Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols
Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols
..........banana, collect , .....humdrum ..........as in one
pronunciation used by r-droppers for bird
(alternative \\) ..........two-value symbol equivalent to the
unstressed variants \\,
\\, as in habit, duchess (\\ = \b, -\) ...........immediately
preceding \\, \\, \\, \\, as in battle, mitten,
and in one pronunciation of cap and bells \--\, lock and key
\--\; immediately following \\, \\, \\, as in one pronunciation of
French table, prisme, titre
.........as in one pronunciation used by r-droppers for bird
(alternative \\)
........operation; stressed, as in bird as pronounced by
speakers who do not drop r; stressed and with centered period after
the \\, as in one pronunciation of burry (alternative \\) and in
one pronunciation of hurry (alternative \\); stressed and with
centered period after \r\ as in one pronunciation of hurry
(alternative \\)
..........mat, map ..........day, fade, date, aorta
..........bother, cot; most American speakers have the same vowel
in
father, cart ..........father as pronounced by speakers who do
not rhyme it with
bother; farther and cart as pronounced by r-droppers
........bad, bag, fan as often pronounced in an area having New
York City and Washington, D.C., on its perimeter; in an emphatic
syllable, as before a pause, often \\
.........as in some pronunciations of bag, bang, pass
........now, loud, some pronunciations of talcum ..........baby,
rib ........chin, nature \()\ (actually, this sound is \\ + \\)
..........elder, undone .........as in the usual American
pronunciation of latter, ladder ..........bet, bed , ....beat,
nosebleed, evenly, sleepy ..........as in one pronunciation of
evenly, sleepy, envious,
igneous (alternative \\) ........(in transcriptions of foreign
words only) indicates a vowel
with the quality of e in bet but long, not the sound of ee in
sleep: en arrire \\
........as in one pronunciation of elk, helm ..........fifty,
cuff ..........go, big ..........hat, ahead .......whale as
pronounced by those who do not have the same
pronunciation for both whale and wail ..........tip, one
pronunciation of banish (alternative unstressed \\),
one pronunciation of habit (alternative \\; see )
..........site, side, buy (actually, this sound is \\ + \\, or
\\ + \\) ........as in one pronunciation of milk, film
..........job, gem, edge, procedure \()\ (actually, this sound
is
\\ + \\)
..........kin, cook, ache ..........as in one pronunciation of
loch (alternative \\), as in German
ich-laut ..........lily, pool ........murmur, dim, nymph
..........no, own ..........indicates that a preceding vowel is
pronounced with the nasal
passages open, as in French un bon vin blanc \\ ..........sing
\\, singer \()\, finger \()\, ink \\ ..........bone, snow, beau;
one pronunciation of glory ..........saw, all, saurian; one
pronunciation of horrid .........French buf, German Hlle
.........French feu, German Hhle ........coin, destroy, strawy,
sawing ........(in transcriptions of foreign words only) indicates
a vowel
with the quality of o in bone but longer, not the sound of oo in
food: comte \\
..........pepper, lip ..........rarity, one pronunciation of tar
..........source, less ........with nothing between, as in shy,
mission, machine, special
(actually, this is a single sound, not two); with a stress mark
between, two sounds as in deaths-head \\
..........tie, attack; one pronunciation of latter (alternative
\\) ........with nothing between, as in thin, ether (actually, this
is a
single sound, not two); with a stress mark between, two sounds
as in knighthood \\
........then, either (actually, this is a single sound, not two)
..........rule, fool, youth, union \\, few \\ ..........pull, wood,
curable \\ ........German fllen, hbsch ........French rue, German
fhlen ..........vivid, give .........we, away ..........yard, cue
\\, union \\ ...........(in transcriptions of foreign words only)
indicates that during
articulation of the sound represented by the preceding character
the tip of the tongue has substantially the position it has for the
articulation of the first sound of yard, as in French digne \\
........youth, union, cue, few ........curable ..........zone,
raise ........with nothing between, as in vision, azure \()\
(actually,
this is a single sound, not two); with a stress mark between,
two sounds as in rosehill \\
...........mark preceding a syllable with primary (strongest)
stress: \\
...........mark preceding a syllable with secondary
(next-strongest) stress: \\
( ) indicate that what is symbolized between is present in some
utterances but not in others: factory \() \
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page 3 Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation and Language of
Origin
Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation and Language of Origin
Pronunciation
For many words in Websters Third New International Dictionary,
copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster (Websters Third), more than one
pronunciation is offered. In this school pronouncer guide, the
chief pronunciation for a word is most often the first
pronunciation given in this dictionary. Occasionally, however, the
Bee has chosen to assign the dictionarys second or third
pronunciation as the chief pronunciation. This decision has been
made whenever the Bee has reason to think that a certain
pronunciation has become the most prevalent one since this
dictionary was first published. Many of the variations in
pronunciation listed in Websters Third are included in this
publication as alternate pronunciations and are listed in square
brackets under the chief pronunciation. These alternate
pronunciations are all the variants in the dictionarys
pronunciation data that differ phonemically from the chief
pronunciation. Minor phonetic variations that are described in the
dictionary pages are not included here, however, such as
pronunciations that differ only in the level of stress on given
syllables. In addition, this publication has not included the
voluminous treatment of r-dropping and vowel variations before /r/
such as those that are found in certain geographical dialects of
American English. Experience has shown that this information about
nuances of phonetic variation in pronunciation can be the cause for
confusion for spellers and pronouncers alike. Nevertheless, every
pronunciation in Websters Third that can offer any clues about
spelling is listed as an alternate pronunciation herein. The phrase
no alternate pronunciations means simply that, while the dictionary
entry may or may not contain further details about phonetic
differences in different dialects, the word in question has no
other pronunciations that differ phonemically from the chief
pronunciation that is provided.
Language of Origin Information in this guide regarding language
of origin is a simplification of that provided in Websters Third.
For example, Websters Third gives Old English, Middle English, and
English, but we give only English. With New Latin and International
Scientific Vocabulary, however, we tend to provide information that
supplements that provided in Websters Third. Where Websters Third
lists New Latin as the language of origin, we attempt to list the
origin of the roots used to form the new word. We list
International Scientific Vocabulary only when it is difficult to
determine instead the languages from which the International
Scientific Vocabulary element came. We do not always list all of
the languages a word passed through before it entered modern
English. Only those languages that significantly altered the word
are listed, with the earliest language listed first followed by the
subsequent language(s). We give the separate etymologies of each
word element regularly used in Websters Third, with one exception:
combining form(s). Combining forms are word elements regularly used
in English or another language to make a new word, but they do not
by themselves constitute words. Examples include -ly, -ing, -ment,
-en, -o-, en-, non-, etc. Page 16a of Websters Third contains more
detailed information about etymological entries.
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page 4 Tips for Spelling Bee Officials
Tips for Spelling Bee Officials 1. Acquaint yourself with the
organization of the 2014 School Pronouncer Guide (available in the
log-in section of spellingbee.com). A. Words 1225:
These words were selected from the 2014 School Spelling Bee
Study List for students in grades 18.
Words progress in difficulty by groups of 25 words.
B. Words 226375 (Additional Words):
These words were NOT selected from the 2014 School Spelling Bee
Study List for students in grades
18. Instead, these words were selected from Websters Third New
International Dictionary and its addenda section, copyright 2002,
Merriam-Webster (Websters Third).
2. Acquaint yourself with the Rules for Local Spelling Bees
(available in the log-in section of spellingbee.com and in the
front section of the 2014 School Pronouncer Guide). 3. Pronouncers,
please note:
Before the spelling bee gets under way, review the 2014 School
Pronouncer Guide and familiarize yourself with the correct
pronunciations of the words.
One pronunciation is listed alongside each word in the 2014
School Pronouncer Guide. If the speller requests an alternate
pronunciation, consult the additional pronunciation information
provided in square brackets. Please refer to the guidelines
regarding pronunciation provided on page 3 of the 2014 School
Pronouncer Guide.
The 2014 School Pronouncer Guide provides language of origin
information. Please refer to the
guidelines regarding language of origin on page 3. Consult your
dictionary if you desire additional information or clarity
regarding a words language of origin.
Although some words can be more than one part of speech, only
one part of speech per word is provided in the 2014 School
Pronouncer Guide. The part of speech provided matches that of the
definition listed and coincides with the words use in the
illustrative sentence.
Several words have homonyms or near homonyms. If you think a
word is a homonym and yet a
homonym is not listed, check your dictionary or skip the word.
It is possible that we did not note the fact that the word is a
homonym. For the final word in handling homonyms, see the portions
of Rules 5, 7, and 11 that refer to homonyms.
For spelling words, the 2014 School Pronouncer Guide provides
the Websters Third page and
column location of each word, designated in parentheses after
the part of speech as follows: (Websters Third page number, column
number).
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page 5 Tips for Spelling Bee Officials
4. Judges, please note:
Ensure that you are completely familiar with the Rules for Local
Spelling Bees. Pay particular attention to Rule 6 (Judges role),
Rule 10 (End-of-bee procedure) and Rule 11 (Appeals).
You may customize the word list in the 2014 School Pronouncer
Guide for the circumstances of your
spelling bee. You may omit words. You may place words elsewhere
on the list. However, if you choose to place words elsewhere on the
list, avoid placing a School Spelling Bee Study List word (any word
with a number between 1 and 225) in the Additional Words (any word
with a number greater than 225) and vice versa.
Preserve fairness by ensuring that all spellers spelling in the
same round receive words from the same section of the 2014 School
Pronouncer Guide.
Websters Third (Figure 1) is the final authority for the
spelling of all words that appear on Scripps
National Spelling Bee word lists. We suggest that you have at
least one copy of Websters Third on hand at your spelling bee. If
you cannot locate a copy of Websters Third in time for your
spelling bee, Merriam-Websters Collegiate Dictionary, eleventh
edition (Figure 2), copyright 2003, Merriam-Webster, Inc., is the
preferred alternative.
Figure 1 Figure 2
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page 6 Rules for Local Spelling Bees
Rules for Local Spelling Bees
Preface
We encourage spellers, parents, teachers, and spelling bee
officials to read these rules prior to any spelling bee.
These rules are guidelines designed to assist spelling bee
officials and spellers at the local level. Spellers should check
with their local spelling bee officials for the rules in effect in
their area. Spelling bee officials include the pronouncer, judges,
coordinator and sponsor. While local spelling bee officials have
the prerogative to amend Rules 2 through 11, amendmentsparticularly
any amendments to the end-of-bee procedureshould be undertaken only
with careful consideration of the various outcomes that may result
from the amendments.
The Scripps National Spelling Bee has no authority over the
conduct of local spelling bees (namely, spelling bees other than
the Scripps National Spelling Bee near Washington, D.C.).
Consequently, the national office will not render judgments
relating to the conduct of local spelling bees. Individuals bearing
complaints about the conduct of local spelling bees should register
their concerns with local spelling bee officials. DECISIONS OF
LOCAL SPELLING BEE OFFICIALS ARE FINAL.
These Rules for Local Spelling Bees are not the rules in effect
at the Scripps National Spelling Bee near Washington, DC. When a
local spelling bee official says, We use the national rules, he or
she is probably indicating that the Rules for Local Spelling Bees
are in effect. The Scripps National Spelling Bee near Washington,
D.C. operates under a significantly different set of rules called
the Contest Rules of the 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee. These
rules contain provisions that are specific to unique conditions at
the event near Washington, D.C. Their successful implementation at
the local level is considered impossible and therefore is not
recommended.
Rules
1. Eligibility: A speller qualifying for the 2014 Scripps
National Spelling Bee near Washington, D.C. must meet these
requirements:
(1) The speller must not have won a Scripps National Spelling
Bee championship near Washington, D.C. (2) The speller must attend
a school that is officially enrolled with the Scripps National
Spelling Bee. (3) The speller must not have passed beyond the
eighth grade on or before February 1, 2014. (4) The speller must
not have repeated fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth grade
for the purpose of extending spelling bee eligibility. If the
speller has repeated fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth
grade, the speller must notify the Scripps National Spelling Bee of
the circumstances of grade repetition by March 31, 2014; and the
Scripps National Spelling Bee will, at its sole discretion,
determine the spellers eligibility status on or before April 30,
2014.
(5) The spelleror the spellers parent, legal guardian, or school
official acting on the spellers behalfmust not have declared to
another entity an academic classification higher than eighth grade
for any purpose, including high school graduation equivalency or
proficiency examinations and/or examinations such as the PSAT, SAT,
or ACT. (6) The speller must not have earned the legal equivalent
of a high school diploma. (7) The speller must not have completed
or have been enrolled in more than six high school-level courses or
two college-level courses on or before April 30, 2014. (8) The
speller must not eschew normal school activity to study for
spelling bees. The Scripps National Spelling Bee defines normal
school activity as adherence to at least four courses of study
other than language arts, spelling, Latin, Greek, vocabulary, and
etymology for at least four hours per weekday for 34 of the 38
weeks between August 27, 2013, and May 18, 2014. (9) The speller
must not have reached his/her 15th birthday on or before August 31,
2013.
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page 7 Rules for Local Spelling Bees
(10) The speller must have been declared a champion of a final
local spelling bee on or after February 1, 2014. (11) Once having
been disqualified at any level of a sponsors spelling bee program
between June 2013 and April 2014, the speller remains disqualified
for the 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee and may not seek
advancement in the 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee program
through another sponsor and/or enrollment in another school. (12)
The speller, upon qualifying for the 2014 Scripps National Spelling
Bee near Washington, D.C., must submit a completed Champion Bio
Form, a Certification of Eligibility Form, a signed Appearance
Consent and Release Form and a photo to the Scripps National
Spelling Bee. The speller will notify the Beeat least 24 hours
prior to the first day of competition in the 2014 Scripps National
Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.if any of the statements made on
the Certification of Eligibility Form are no longer true or require
updating. The spellers sponsor will provide access to the necessary
forms. (13) The speller must not have any first-, second-or
third-degree relatives (i.e. sibling, parent, grandparent, aunt,
uncle, niece, nephew, half-sibling, first cousin or great
grandparent) who are current employees of The E.W. Scripps Company.
The Scripps National Spelling Bee may disqualify prior to or during
competition any speller who is not in compliance with any of its
eligibility requirements; and it mayat any time between the
conclusion of the 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee and April 30,
2015require any speller who is found to have not been in compliance
with any of the eligibility requirements to forfeit the prizes,
rank, and other benefits accorded to the speller as a result of
participation in the 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee.
2. Format: The spelling bee is conducted in rounds. Each speller
remaining in the spelling bee at the start of a round spells one
word or answers one vocabulary question in each round except in the
case of a written, multiple choice, or online test. The spelling
bee may be conducted orally or in writing or in a manner that is a
combination of the two; however, if the spelling bee officials
specify an oral format, the speller may not demand a written format
except under the conditions of Rule 4.
3. Word list: Local spelling bee officials are responsible for
selecting the word lists for use at each local spelling bee. Many
local spelling bee officials use word lists generated by the
Scripps National Spelling Bee. These lists include many words that
appear in the current edition of Spell It! as well as some
end-of-bee words. All words on Scripps National Spelling Bee word
lists are entries in Websters Third New International Dictionary
and its addenda section, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster, the
official dictionary of the Scripps National Spelling Bee.
4. Special needs: Spelling bee officials will strive to provide
accommodation for spellers who have physical challenges. All
requests for spelling bee officials to accommodate special needs
involving sight, hearing, speech, or movement should be directed to
spelling bee officials well in advance of the spelling bee date.
The judges have discretionary power to amend oral and/or written
spelling requirements on a case-by-case basis for spellers with
diagnosed medical conditions involving sight, hearing, speech, or
movement.
5. Pronouncers role: The pronouncer strives to pronounce words
according to the diacritical markings in Scripps National Spelling
Bee word lists.
In Oral Spelling Rounds:
Homonyms: If a word has one or more homonyms, the pronouncer
indicates which word is to be spelled by defining the word.
Spellers requests: The pronouncer responds to the spellers
requests for a definition, sentence, part of speech, language(s) of
origin, and alternate pronunciation(s). When presented with
requests for alternate pronunciations, the pronouncer or an aide to
the pronouncer checks for alternate pronunciations in either
Websters Third New International Dictionary and its addenda
section, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster or Merriam-Websters
Collegiate Dictionary, eleventh edition. The pronouncer does not
entertain root word questions, requests for alternate definitions,
or requests for markedly slower pronunciation. Pronouncers sense of
helpfulness: The pronouncer may offer word informationwithout the
speller having requested the informationif the pronouncer senses
that the information is helpful and the information is presented in
the entry for the word in a 2014 Scripps National Spelling Bee word
list.
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page 8 Rules for Local Spelling Bees
In Oral Vocabulary Rounds: Procedure: The pronouncer reads aloud
the vocabulary question and both options (A) and (B), but does not
indicate which is correct. Homonyms: If a word has one or more
homonyms, the pronouncer indicates which word is in question by
spelling the word aloud. Spellers requests: The pronouncer responds
to the spellers requests for the question and/or answer options to
be repeated. The pronouncer may also provide the spelling of the
word in question.
6. Judges role: The judges uphold the rules and determine
whether or not words are spelled correctly or vocabulary items are
answered correctly. They also render final decisions on appeals in
accordance with Rule 11. They are in complete control of the
competition and their decision is final on all questions.
Interaction with the speller: Because seeing the spellers lip
movements may be critical in detecting misunderstandings or
misspellings, the judges encourage spellers to face them when
pronouncing and spelling the word. Notice of rules: The judges
ensure that all spellers and audience members are given an
opportunity to receive a complete copy of the rules prior to the
start of the spelling bee. Misunderstandings: The judges
participate in the exchange of information between the speller and
pronouncer if they feel that clarification is needed. Also, the
judges listen carefully to the spellers pronunciation of the word;
and, if they sense that the speller has misunderstood the word, the
judges work with the speller and pronouncer until they are
satisfied that reasonable attempts have been made to assist the
speller in understanding the word. While the judges are responsible
for attempting to detect a spellers misunderstanding, it is
sometimes impossible to detect a misunderstanding until an error
has been made. The judges are not responsible for the spellers
misunderstanding. Pronouncer errors: The judges compare the
pronouncers pronunciation with the diacritical markings in the word
list. If the judges feel that the pronouncers pronunciation does
not match the pronunciation specified in the diacritical markings,
the judges direct the pronouncer to correct the error as soon as it
is detected.
Disqualifications for reasons other than error: The judges will
disqualify a speller (1) who refuses a request to start spelling or
to provide an answer to a vocabulary question; (2) who does not
approach the microphone when it is time to receive the word or
question; (3) who does not comply with the eligibility
requirements; (4) who engages in unsportsmanlike conduct; (5) who,
in the process of retracing a spelling, alters the letters or
sequence of letters from those first uttered; (6) who, in the
process of spelling, utters unintelligible or nonsense sounds; or
(7) who, in the process of providing an answer in an oral
vocabulary round, provides a blend of correct and incorrect
information (For example: If in answering the question, What is
porridge made from? A. fur, or B. grain, the speller provides as an
answer either: A. grain or B. fur.). Speller activities that do not
merit disqualification: The judges may not disqualify a speller (1)
for failing to pronounce the word either before or after spelling
it, (2) for asking a question, or (3) for noting or failing to note
the capitalization of a word, the presence of a diacritical mark,
the presence of a hyphen or other form of punctuation, or spacing
between words in an open compound.
7. Spellers role: In a spelling round, the speller makes an
effort to face the judges and pronounce the word for the judges
before spelling it and after spelling it. The speller while facing
the judges makes an effort to utter each letter distinctly and with
sufficient volume to be understood by the judges. The speller may
ask the pronouncer to say the word again, define it, use it in a
sentence, provide the part of speech, provide the language(s) of
origin, and/or provide an alternate pronunciation or
pronunciations.
Misunderstandings: The speller is responsible for any
misunderstanding of the word unless (1) the pronouncer never
provided a correct pronunciation; (2) the pronouncer provided
incorrect information regarding the definition, part of speech, or
language of origin; or (3) the speller correctly spelled a homonym
of the word and the pronouncer failed to either offer a definition
or distinguish the homonyms. In an oral vocabulary round, a speller
may answer the question by providing (1) the letter associated with
the chosen answer, (2) the chosen answer or (3) both. If the
correct answer is identified by (1) associated letter alone or (2)
by answer alone or (3) by both correct letter and correct answer,
the speller is correct.
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page 9 Rules for Local Spelling Bees
For example: If the speller is offered the question, What is
porridge made from? A. fur, or B. grain, each of the following
methods of answering is correct: B, grain, or B. grain.
8. Correction of a misspelling: The pronouncer and judges will
not ask the speller to correct another spellers misspelling, even
in end-of-bee circumstances.
9. Errors: Upon providing an incorrect spelling of a word or an
incorrect answer to a vocabulary question, the speller immediately
drops out of the competition, except as provided in Rule 10.
10. End-of-bee procedure:
If all spellers in a round misspell or answer vocabulary
questions incorrectly: If none of the spellers remaining in the
spelling bee at the start of a round spells a word correctly or
answers a vocabulary question correctly during that round, all
remain in the competition and a new spelling round begins. Ties:
All spellers eliminated in the same round are tied for the same
place. After the champion has been determined, spelling bee
officials may opt to conduct tiebreakers (of their own design) if
tiebreakers are necessary for the awarding of prizes or the
determination of qualifying spellers for the next level of
competition. If only one speller in a round spells correctly or
answers a vocabulary question correctly: If only one speller spells
correctly in a round, a new one-word spelling round begins and the
speller is given an opportunity to spell a word on the list
(anticipated championship word). If the speller succeeds in
correctly spelling the anticipated championship word in this
one-word round, the speller is declared the champion. Example: In
Round 12 there are four spellers. Spellers 6 and 21 misspell.
Speller 30 spells correctly. Speller 42 misspells. So, Speller 30
is the only speller in the round to spell correctly. Speller 30
begins Round 13a one-word roundand is offered the anticipated
championship word. Speller 30 correctly spells the anticipated
championship word and is declared champion. Example: Two spellers
spell in Round 10. Speller 14 misspells. Speller 25 spells
correctly. Speller 25 begins Round 11a one-word roundand is offered
the anticipated championship word. Speller 25 correctly spells the
anticipated championship word and is declared champion.
Example: Two spellers spell in Round 16. Speller 3 spells
correctly. Speller 9 misspells. Speller 3 begins Round 17a one-word
roundand is offered the anticipated championship word. Speller 3
correctly spells the anticipated championship word and is declared
champion. VERY IMPORTANT: If a speller misspells the anticipated
championship word in a one-word round: A new spelling round begins
with ALL the spellers who participated in the previous round. These
spellers spell in their original order. Example: In Round 8 there
are three spellers. Speller 12 spells correctly and Spellers 23 and
37 misspell. Round 9a one-word roundbegins, and Speller 12 is
offered the anticipated championship word. Speller 12 misspells the
anticipated championship word. Round 10 begins and includes
Spellers 12, 23, and 37. The rules prescribe that spellers 12, 23,
and 37 spell in their original order; so Speller 12 gets the next
word on the list even though Speller 12 misspelled the previous
word on the list. Round 10 is not complete until all three spellers
have spelled. Tip: Spelling bee officials may find it helpful to
designate a record keeper or judge to track the progress of
spellers throughout the rounds. The record keepers information will
be helpful in preventing end-of-bee confusion.
11. Appeals: The spellers parent(s), legal guardian, or teacher
may appeal to the judges for the spellers reinstatement provided
that the appeal is in compliance with the appeal protocol. The
judges render a final decision on the appeal in accordance with the
reinstatement protocol.
Appeal protocol
A written appeal must be hand delivered to the designated
official (usually the spelling bee coordinator/director). The
deadline for delivering an appeal is before the speller affected
would have received his/her next word had he/she stayed in the
spelling bee; however, to minimize disruptions to the spelling bee,
every effort should be made to deliver an appeal by the end of the
round in which the speller was eliminated. When five or fewer
spellers remain, the written appeal requirement is suspended, and
an oral appeal must be made before the speller would have received
his/her next word had he/she stayed in the spelling bee. A written
appeal must provide the spellers name, the word in question, and
the reason the speller should be reinstated.
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page 10 Rules for Local Spelling Bees
While the competition is in session, individuals who have filed
appeals may not directly approach the judges unless explicit
permission to approach the judges has been given. The judges will
contact the speller if they decide to reinstate the speller. To
minimize disruption to the pace of the spelling bee and the
concentration of the spellers, the judges are under no obligation
to stop the spelling bee in order to discuss with the spellers
parent(s), legal guardian, or teacher a denied appeal. The judges
decisions are final and are subject neither to review nor to
reversal by the Scripps National Spelling Bees headquarters
office.
Reinstatement protocol Pronouncer mispronunciation: An appeal
claiming that a spellers elimination from the spelling bee was due
to pronunciation error should be denied unless there is agreement
that the pronouncer never offered a correct pronunciation.
Alternate pronunciations: An appeal claiming that the pronouncer
did not offer alternate pronunciations should be denied unless it
is determined that the speller requested alternate pronunciations
and the pronouncer did not accommodate the spellers request for
alternate pronunciations and it appears that the spellers spelling
almost matches the correct spelling. Spellers misunderstanding: An
appeal claiming that the spellers elimination from the spelling bee
was due to the spellers not understanding the word [its
pronunciation(s) and/or other information about the word] should be
denied. It is the spellers responsibility to understand the word.
Speller offered correct spelling for a word in this guide: An
appeal claiming that the speller correctly spelled the word should
be denied unless an audio recording of the bees proceedings or bee
officials recollections clearly indicate that the word was indeed
spelled correctly. Exception: If the spellers spelling is listed in
Websters Third New International Dictionary and its addenda
section, Merriam-Webster, copyright 2002, the speller should be
reinstated if all of the following three criteria are met:
(1) The pronunciations of the words are identical, (2) the
definitions of the words are identical, and (3) the words are
clearly identified as being standard variants of each other.
Spellings at other locations having temporal labels (such as
archaic, obsolete), stylistic labels (such as substand, nonstand),
or regional labels (such as North, Midland, Irish) which differ
from main entry spellings not having these status labels will not
be accepted as correct. Speller offered correct spelling, as
indicated in a dictionary other than Websters Third: An appeal
claiming that the speller spelled the word correctly according to a
dictionary other than Websters Third New International Dictionary
and its addenda section, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster, should be
denied. Homonym in a spelling round: An appeal claiming that the
spellers elimination was unfair because the spellers word is a
homonym should be denied unless the pronouncer failed to define the
word and the speller correctly spelled a homonym of the word.
Homonym in an oral vocabulary round: An appeal claiming that the
spellers elimination was unfair because the spellers word is a
homonym should be denied unless the pronouncer failed to spell the
word and the speller identified an answer matching the definition
of a homonym of the word. Incorrect or unsolicited information: An
appeal claiming that the spellers elimination was unfair because
the pronouncer offered incorrect or unsolicited information about
the word should be denied unless it is determined that the
pronouncer indeed gave factually incorrect information and it
appears that the spellers spelling would have been correct if not
for the incorrect or unsolicited information provided by the
pronouncer.
Bee officials failed to correct a misunderstanding: An appeal
claiming that the speller misspelled or incorrectly answered
because the judges and/or pronouncer failed to correct the spellers
mispronunciation of the word should be denied. It is sometimes
impossible to detect a spellers mispronunciation or
misunderstanding, and ultimately it is the responsibility of the
speller to understand and correctly pronounce the word.
Disqualification request: An appeal seeking to dislodge another
speller from the spelling bee should be denied.
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page 1
Words 1225 are School Spelling Bee Study List Words
1. rug \ \
This word is of Scandinavian origin.
noun (Websters Third page 1986, column 1)
a piece of thick heavy fabric that is used as a floor covering
and is not intended to cover an entire floor.
Helga bought a new rug to place beneath the dining room
table.
2. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
jam \ \
This word is probably imitative in origin.
noun (Websters Third page 1208, column 3)
[Has homonym: jamb.]
a product made by boiling fruit and sugar to a thick consistency
without preserving the shape of the fruit.
Aubrey's favorite treat was raspberry jam on toast.
3. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
add \ \
This word came from Latin into English.
verb (Websters Third page 24, column 1)
[Has homonym: ad.]
to combine two or more numbers into one sum.
Ms. McMain had her students add six numbers together and then
divide the sum by four.
4. shy \ \
This word is originally English.
adjective (Websters Third page 2109, column 3)
easily frightened : skittish, timid.
Not wanting to frighten the shy kitten, Georges moved slowly
toward her.
Before starting your bee, inform the spellers of your end-of-bee
procedure. If you are using the Rules for Local Spelling Bees,
refer to Rule 10. Failure to inform the spellers of how
you will end your bee may result in complications at the end of
the bee.
If a word has a homonym or near homonym, the words homonym
status is probably noted at the words entry in this guide. We
encourage you to include these words in your bee,
provided you indicate the words homonym or near homonym status
to the speller.
If you think a word is a homonym and yet a homonym is not
listed, please check Websters Third New International Dictionary
for further information or skip the word. It is possible that we
did not note the fact that the word is a homonym. For the final
word in handling
homonyms, see the portions of Rules 5, 7, and 11 that refer to
homonyms.
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page 2
5. eel \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally from English.
noun (Websters Third page 724, column 1)
any of numerous snakelike fishes that have a smooth slimy skin
often without scales.
Most eel species live in shallow ocean waters.
6. tape \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 2339, column 2)
a narrow strip of natural or artificial fibers coated on one
side with an adhesive mixture and used for many purposes.
Adhesive tape is commonly used in wound care.
7. hope \ \
This word is originally English.
verb (Websters Third page 1089, column 3)
to desire with expectation or with belief.
Alexia dared to hope that her parents would let her go to summer
camp this year.
8. Say to the speller This word could be confused with a similar
word. Next, say the word. Next, provide the words part of speech
and definition. Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the
word.
cork \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word probably went from Latin through Arabic before
becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 507, column 1)
[Could be confused with quark.]
the outer tissues of the stem of the cork oak that is used
commercially for cork stoppers and insulation.
Missy's parents popped the cork in the sparkling apple cider to
celebrate her excellent report card.
9. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
mask \ \
This word went from Latin to Italian to French before becoming
English.
noun (Websters Third page 1387, column 3)
[Has homonym: masque.]
a cover or partial cover for the face usually made of cloth with
openings for the eyes.
Danny wore a skeleton mask for Halloween.
10. July \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from a Latin name that came into English.
noun (Websters Third page 1224, column 3)
the seventh month of the year.
Mikaela's family sets off fireworks every Fourth of July.
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page 3
11. acorn \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 18, column 2)
the nut of the oak tree usually seated in or surrounded by a
hard woody cup-shaped structure.
Trina found it hard to believe that something as small as an
acorn could grow into something as large as an oak tree.
12. silly \ \
This word is originally English.
adjective (Websters Third page 2118, column 3)
lacking importance or serious meaning : trivial, trifling,
frivolous.
Ella thought recess was a silly waste of time.
13. lace \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1260, column 3)
a fine fabric with a ground of net on which patterns may be
worked and which is made of thread by looping, twisting, or
knotting.
Gina's wedding gown was made of antique lace.
14. globe \ \
This word went from Latin to French.
noun (Websters Third page 965, column 3)
a round ball that has a map of the earth drawn on it and that is
usually set so as to be rotatable at an angle corresponding to the
inclination of the earth's axis.
Ericson found Mozambique on his classroom globe.
15. never \ \
This word is from English.
adverb (Websters Third page 1522, column 2)
not ever : at no time.
Miles was sad to realize that he would never see a living dodo
bird.
16. count \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
verb (Websters Third page 518, column 2)
to separate one by one to find the total number of units :
number or tally.
There are too many stars in the sky to count them all.
17. always \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
adverb (Websters Third page 65, column 1)
on every occasion : at all times.
Noah always eats cereal for breakfast.
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page 4
18. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
moose \ \
This word is from Algonquian.
noun (Websters Third page 1467, column 1)
[Has homonym: mousse.]
a large mammal that inhabits forested parts of Canada and the
northern United States, stands about seven feet high at the
shoulders and has long legs, a short tail, a large head and antlers
with many points.
The campers hoped they might spy a moose while in the Alaskan
wilderness.
19. thank \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
verb (Websters Third page 2367, column 2)
to express gratitude to.
Felicia wrote notes to thank everyone for her birthday
presents.
20. grass \ \
This word is originally from English.
noun (Websters Third page 990, column 3)
green herbage that affords food for grazing animals and that
usually consists predominantly of narrow-leaved plants often
intermixed with herbs.
Tianna uses a tractor to cut the grass in the summer.
21. tower \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word went from Greek to Latin to French before becoming
English.
noun (Websters Third page 2418, column 1)
a building or structure designed primarily for elevation that is
higher than its diameter and high relative to its surroundings.
The prince climbed to the highest room in the tallest tower to
rescue the princess.
22. pillow \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 1716, column 1)
a sack made typically of cloth and filled with a soft material
used to support the head of a person resting or sleeping.
Muriel hugs her pillow while she sleeps.
23. myself \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
pron (Websters Third page 1496, column 3)
that identical one that is I.
To study spelling, I repeat words out loud to myself.
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page 5
24. number \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1549, column 3)
an arithmetical total : sum of the units involved.
There was a large number of students in the hall between
classes.
25. snowflake \ \
This word consists of an English part plus a part that came from
Norse to English.
noun (Websters Third page 2158, column 2)
a small mass of ice crystals.
Megan tried to catch a falling snowflake on her tongue.
26. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
wee \ \
This word is originally English.
adjective (Websters Third page 2592, column 1)
[Has homonyms: we, whee.]
very small.
Not quite full from dinner, Mildred asked for a wee bit more
soup.
27. link \ \
This word was formed in English from a word of Scandinavian
origin.
verb (Websters Third page 1317, column 1)
to connect by or as if by a connecting element.
The bridge served to link the island with the mainland.
28. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
icon \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word went from Greek to Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 1121, column 2 and page 97a, column
2)
[Other meanings have variant spellings ikon, eikon.]
a graphic symbol on a computer display screen that usually
suggests the type of object represented or the purpose of an
available function.
Ren double-clicked on the card icon on his desktop to open his
game of solitaire.
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page 6
29. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
brew \ \
This word is originally English.
verb (Websters Third page 275, column 2)
[Has homonym: broo.]
to prepare (as a drink or other liquid) by infusion especially
in hot water.
Mary Grace decided to brew some tea to help soothe her sore
throat.
30. crane \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 529, column 2)
any of a small group of tall wading birds resembling the herons
but more closely related to the rails.
The Gladstones saw a large red-legged crane with black and white
wings.
31. given \ \
This word is originally Scandinavian in origin.
verb (Websters Third page 960, column 2)
conferred the ownership of without receiving a return : made a
present of.
Ariel was happy that her old toys were given to charity.
32. pulp \ \
This word went from Latin to French.
noun (Websters Third page 1840, column 3)
the soft succulent part of fruit.
Farrah preferred her orange juice with extra pulp.
33. Say to the speller This word has a near-homonym. Next, say
the word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition.
Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
alarm \ \
Originally from Latin, this word went from Italian to French
before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 48, column 3)
[Has near homonym: similarly pronounced variant alarum.]
a device that warns or signals by means of a noise (as a bell or
siren) or visual effect (as a flashing light).
The burglar fled when he set off the alarm.
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page 7
34. Say to the speller This word has a near-homonym. Next, say
the word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition.
Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
tenth \ \
This word is originally English.
adjective (Websters Third page 2357, column 1)
[Has near-homonym: tense.]
being one more than nine in number in a countable series.
On the first day of summer camp, Jen was excited; by the tenth
she was ready to go home.
35. olive \ \
This word is from a word of probably non-Indo-European origin
that went to Greek, then to Latin, then French before it became
English.
noun (Websters Third page 1572, column 3)
the fruit of the tree of the same name that is eaten either when
unripe and green or when bluish black and ripe and that yields a
valuable oil.
Abi garnished her tomato juice with a green olive.
36. hobby \ \
This word is perhaps from an English nickname.
noun (Websters Third page 1075, column 3)
any favorite pursuit or interest.
Darla took up coin collecting as a hobby.
37. drink \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 691, column 2)
any particular natural or prepared usually agreeable liquid for
swallowing : beverage, potable, brew.
Azra's favorite carbonated drink is ginger ale.
38. shark \ \
This word is of unknown origin.
noun (Websters Third page 2088, column 1)
any of numerous fishes that are usually of medium or large size
including the largest existing fishes, that may be active,
voracious, and rapacious predators or sluggish bottom dwellers
feeding chiefly on mollusks.
Vivian was terrified of shark attacks for weeks after watching
the movie Jaws.
39. flavor \ \
This word probably went from Latin to French before becoming
English.
noun (Websters Third page 867, column 3)
the blend of taste and smell sensations evoked by a substance
(as a portion of food or drink) in the mouth.
Lemons have a sour flavor.
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page 8
40. shout \ \
This word is originally English.
verb (Websters Third page 2105, column 1)
to speak in a loud voice.
Jordan had to shout to be heard over the crowd.
41. broken \ \
This word is originally English.
adjective (Websters Third page 281, column 3)
violently separated into parts : in fragments : shattered.
Omar swept up the pieces of the broken saltshaker.
42. joyful \ \
The first part of this word is from an originally Latin word
that went through French to English, and the second part is an
English combining form.
adjective (Websters Third page 1222, column 1)
experiencing pleasure or delight : happy.
Joyful people are said to live longer.
43. limited \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
adjective (Websters Third page 1312, column 3)
restricted in extent, number or duration.
A limited number of seats are available for the play-off
game.
44. soggy \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from a word of unknown origin plus an English
combining form.
adjective (Websters Third page 2166, column 2)
saturated or heavy with water or moisture : waterlogged,
soaked.
Joey ate his cereal quickly before it became soggy.
45. father \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 828, column 2)
a male parent.
Lars wants to be just like his father when he grows up.
46. bedtime \ \
This word consists of two originally English parts.
noun (Websters Third page 196, column 2)
the period set apart to settle for sleeping.
Katja's grandma always lets her stay up past her normal
bedtime.
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page 9
47. partner \ \
This word is an English alteration of an Anglo-French word.
noun (Websters Third page 1648, column 1)
one that is associated in any action with another : associate,
colleague.
As part the assignment, each student had a partner to work
with.
48. second \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
adjective (Websters Third page 2050, column 2)
next to the first in place or time.
Habib volunteered to give his speech to the class second, after
Anthony.
49. yellow \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 2649, column 1)
a color whose hue resembles that of ripe lemons or sunflowers or
is that of the portion of the spectrum lying between green and
orange.
In her picture, Glinda colored the sun a bright yellow.
50. respect \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word came to English from Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 1934, column 2)
high or special regard : esteem.
Thomas has great respect for his grandpa's opinions.
51. don't \ \
This word is a contraction of two originally English words.
noun (Websters Third page 673, column 2)
a command or entreaty not to do something : prohibition.
For those who suffer from diabetes, sugary food is a definite
don't.
52. urban \ \
This word is from Latin.
adjective (Websters Third page 2520, column 3)
of, relating to, characteristic of, or taking place in a
city.
Zelda dreamed of moving away from her parents' farm and
embracing the urban life in New York City.
The speller should not be disqualified based upon noting or
failing to note punctuation or spacing within the following word.
The speller should be judged based upon uttering the
correct sequence of letters in the correct order.
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page 0
53. award \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word came from French to English.
noun (Websters Third page 152, column 1)
something that is conferred or bestowed upon a person :
grant.
Mr. Parker was thrilled to have won such a major award.
54. deaf \ \
This word is originally English.
adjective (Websters Third page 580, column 3)
lacking or deprived of the sense of hearing either wholly or in
part.
Tina, who is fluent in American Sign Language, is an interpreter
for people who are deaf or hard of hearing.
55. ivory \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from an originally Hamitic word that went through
Latin and French before becoming English.
adjective (Websters Third page 1204, column 2)
of a creamy white color.
The ivory sweater that Karen purchased qualifies as "winter
white."
56. selfish \ \
This word is originally English.
adjective (Websters Third page 2060, column 3)
seeking or concentrating on one's own advantage, pleasure, or
well-being without regard for others.
Mitch's mother told him not sharing his toys with his little
brother was selfish behavior.
57. pouch \ \
This word is from an originally Germanic word that went through
French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1776, column 3)
a sack or satchel of moderate size for storing or transporting
goods.
Igor laid his coin pouch on the table as he entered the
room.
58. well-off \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of two originally English parts.
adjective (Websters Third page 2595, column 3)
having more than adequate material and especially financial
resources : prosperous.
Hayden would not describe himself as well-off, but he always
seemed to make enough money to survive.
The speller should not be disqualified based upon noting or
failing to note punctuation or spacing within the following word.
The speller should be judged based upon uttering the
correct sequence of letters in the correct order.
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page 1
59. honor \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1087, column 1)
outward respect or admiration : recognition, deference.
Demitri attended a dinner in honor of the retiring
principal.
60. barge \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 176, column 2)
a roomy usually flat-bottomed boat used principally in harbors
or inland waterways for the transport of goods and sometimes
passengers and usually propelled by towing.
Loaded with coal, the barge moved slowly down river.
61. saying \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 2021, column 3)
a commonly repeated statement : adage, proverb.
Hilda often wondered about the origin of the saying "don't throw
the baby out with the bathwater."
62. actress \ \
This word consists of part that came from Latin to English plus
an English combining form.
noun (Websters Third page 22, column 2)
a female theatrical performer.
Keira wants to become an actress and has played small parts in
several plays.
63. really \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
adverb (Websters Third page 1890, column 3)
in actual fact : actually.
Aya was angry and didn't really mean what she said.
64. energy \ \
This word went from Greek to Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 751, column 1)
the capacity of acting, operating, or producing an effect :
inherent power.
Sue claimed that you lose energy as you get older.
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page 2
65. Say to the speller This word has a near-homonym. Next, say
the word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition.
Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
royal \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
adjective (Websters Third page 1982, column 1)
[Has near homonym: roil.]
of, relating to, owned by, or subject to the jurisdiction of the
crown.
The prince and his bride honeymooned on the royal yacht.
66. market \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1383, column 2)
a public place where people meet together at a stated time and
place for the purpose of traffic (as in cattle, provisions, or
wares) by private purchase and sale.
Santana loved going to the flea market with her grandpa.
67. pastel \ \
This word is from a Latin word that went through Italian to
French.
adjective (Websters Third page 1652, column 2)
pale and light in color : lacking in brilliance or
intensity.
Mrs. Cooper selected bold rather than pastel colors for her new
baby's bedroom decor.
68. scarecrow \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of a part that came from Old Norse to English
plus an originally English part.
noun (Websters Third page 2026, column 1)
an object typically suggesting a human figure set up to frighten
birds away from crops.
Talia jumped at the sight of a rumpled old scarecrow on the
floor of the deserted barn.
69. bucket \ \
This word is originally English and went through
Anglo-French.
noun (Websters Third page 288, column 3)
a typically round and wooden vessel for drawing up water from a
well.
Georgie let Liza know that there was a hole in the water
bucket.
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page 3
70. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
lesson \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1297, column 1)
[Has homonym: lessen.]
a period of formal instruction devoted to a single subject.
Dora hurried so as not to be late for her piano lesson.
71. Say to the speller This word has a near-homonym. Next, say
the word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition.
Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
chalk \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 371, column 1)
[Has near homonym: chock.]
the prepared form (as for filler or for marking or drawing
purposes) of a soft friable limestone of marine origin earthy in
texture and white, gray, or buff in color.
Bart picked up the chalk and solved the math problem Mrs.
Applewhite had written on the board.
72. birthday \ \
This word consists of a part that went from Old Norse to English
plus an originally English part.
noun (Websters Third page 221, column 1)
an anniversary of being born.
Gloria's dad always baked her favorite cake on her birthday.
73. inched \ \
This word is from a word that went from Latin to English.
verb (Websters Third page 1141, column 3)
moved slowly or in little increments.
Melinda inched quietly toward the door so as not wake her
sleeping baby brother.
74. comma \ \
This word went from Greek to Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 455, column 2)
a punctuation mark, used especially as a mark of separation
within the sentence generally indicating a slight pause.
An introductory subordinate clause should be set off with a
comma.
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page 24 Rules for Local Spelling Bees
75. princely \ \
Originally Latin, this word went through French before becoming
English.
adjective (Websters Third page 1802, column 2)
resembling or having the characteristics of a male member of a
royal family : stately, noble.
Mr. Townsend's generous donation to the hospital was cheered as
a princely gesture.
76. bebop \ \
This word is imitative.
noun (Websters Third page 194, column 3)
jazz characterized by rhythmic harmonic complexity and
innovation, and usually fast tempos and loud bravura execution.
With the focus on improvisation, bebop allowed for an explosion
of innovation.
77. frump \ \
This word is perhaps from a word that went from Dutch to
English.
noun (Websters Third page 916, column 3)
a drab, old-fashioned person.
Mr. Collins was a frump who was always talking about "the good
old days."
78. publish \ \
This word is an English modification of a word that went from
Latin to French.
verb (Websters Third page 1837, column 1)
to release a product of creative work for public distribution or
sale usually with the consent of the copyright holder.
Eustace decided that if no one would publish her first novel,
she would do it herself.
79. mortal \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word came from Latin through French into English.
adjective (Websters Third page 1472, column 1)
destructive to life : causing or capable of causing death.
The diver's cage would protect him from receiving a mortal wound
from a shark.
At the end of your round, would you like to include a round of
oral vocabulary questions in your competition? Turn to page 77 to
begin a basic vocabulary round, page 81 to begin an intermediate
vocabulary round, or page 84 to begin an advanced vocabulary round.
Prior
to beginning a vocabulary round, note the spelling word last
offered so that you may return to the next spelling word on the
list when you conclude the vocabulary round.
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page 5
80. aren't \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is a contraction of two originally English words.
verb (Websters Third page 116, column 1)
to not have a meaning that includes or implies the meaning
of.
Peanuts aren't actually nuts.
81. software \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of two originally English parts.
noun (Websters Third page 130a, column 3)
the entire set of programs, procedures, and related
documentation associated with a system and especially a computer
system; specifically : computer programs.
To protect her computer, Julia installed the latest anti-virus
software.
82. confess \ \
This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
English.
verb (Websters Third page 475, column 2)
to tell of or make known something private or hidden : admit,
acknowledge.
Sanjay reluctantly had to confess to his parents that he
received a low grade on his math test.
83. empower \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of an English combining form plus a part that
went from Latin to French before becoming English.
verb (Websters Third page 744, column 1)
give abilities to : enable.
Mr. Hartman believes that a good education will empower his
students to become successful adults.
84. infant \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1157, column 3)
a child in the first year of life : baby.
Mac felt awkward with his baby brother until his mom showed him
how to properly hold an infant.
The speller should not be disqualified based upon noting or
failing to note punctuation or spacing within the following word.
The speller should be judged based upon uttering the
correct sequence of letters in the correct order.
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page 6
85. possible \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
adjective (Websters Third page 1771, column 1)
falling within the bounds of what may be done, occur, be
conceived, or be attained within the framework of nature, custom or
manners.
Jacoby didn't think it was possible for someone to be so lucky
as to win the lottery twice.
86. shortfall \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of two originally English parts.
noun (Websters Third page 2103, column 1)
deficit, shortage.
The city government faced a budget shortfall of around 3 million
dollars.
87. payment \ \
This word came from French to English.
noun (Websters Third page 1659, column 2)
something given to discharge a debt or obligation or to fulfill
a promise.
Marjorie bought pizza for all her friends as payment for helping
her move into her new apartment.
88. motion \ \
This word came from Latin through French to English.
noun (Websters Third page 1475, column 1)
an act or instance of moving the body or any of its members :
gesture.
The dancer's every motion was graceful and precise.
89. arrow \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 121, column 3)
a weapon shot from a bow that consists of a straight slender
shaft with a point or sharp head and feathers or vanes fastened
near the end.
After weeks of practice, Dodie finally managed to get her arrow
to hit the bull's-eye.
90. Say to the speller This word has a near-homonym. Next, say
the word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition.
Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
insight \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 1169, column 2)
[Has homonym: incite.]
clear and immediate understanding.
According to popular legend, Isaac Newton was granted sudden
insight into the laws of gravity when an apple fell on his
head.
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page 7
91. million \ \
Originally Latin, this word passed through Italian and French
before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 1435, column 2)
a very large or indefinitely great number.
Danae felt like she had a million things to do before the
semester ended.
92. thawed \ \
This word is originally English.
verb (Websters Third page 2368, column 2)
became free of stiffness, hardness, numbness, ice or other
effect of cold as a result of being warmed.
Marcus waited until the meat thawed before grilling it.
93. piracy \ \
This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 1723, column 1)
robbery on the high seas.
Charged with piracy, Blackbeard was hunted down by government
warships.
94. cowlick \ \
This word is made up of two originally English parts.
noun (Websters Third page 526, column 2)
a lock or tuft of hair growing in a different direction from the
rest of the hair and usually turned up or awry.
Without a lot of hair gel and coaxing, Queenie's cowlick caused
her bangs to stick straight up.
95. theater or
theatre \ \
[ \ \ ]
Originally Greek, this word went from Latin through French
before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 2369, column 1)
a building for dramatic performances usually including a stage
and with dressing rooms for actors and an auditorium :
playhouse.
The theater was so large that Erwin had a hard time finding his
seat before the play began.
96. alpha \ \
Originally a Hebrew-related Phoenician word, this word went
through Greek and Latin before becoming English.
adjective (Websters Third page 60, column 3)
socially dominant especially in a group of animals.
In social animals, the alpha animal is the individual in the
community with the highest rank.
The following word has two correct spellings. Either one of the
two spellings listed below should be accepted as correct; the
speller only needs to provide one correct spelling.
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page 28
97. scorpion \ \
Originally Greek, this word went from Latin to French before
becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 2037, column 1)
any of numerous arachnids of warm and tropical regions with an
elongated body with a segmented tail with a venomous sting at the
tip.
The scorpion has been on Earth a long time and is among the
first animals to have adapted to land.
98. lumberjack \ \
The first part of this word is perhaps an alteration of an
originally Latin word that went through Italian and French to
English, and the second part is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 1345, column 1)
one who is engaged in the action or business of logging.
Paul Bunyan is a legendary, giant lumberjack, who is said to
have been able to cut down 25 trees with a single swing.
99. ledge \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 1288, column 3)
a narrow shelf forming the top or projecting from the side of a
wall or other vertical structure.
Parker's mother grows parsley and rosemary on a sunny ledge in
the kitchen.
100. Tuesday \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 2461, column 1)
the day following Monday.
Celia took art lessons every Tuesday after school.
101. podium \ \
This word is from Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 1748, column 2)
a raised platform or pedestal : dais.
Shawn's biggest dream was to stand on the Olympic podium and
receive her gold medal.
102. legacy \ \
Originally Latin, this word went through French before becoming
English.
noun (Websters Third page 1290, column 1)
something coming from the past (as from an age, event, or
policy).
Tim worked hard to maintain his family's legacy of charity.
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page 29
103. Say to the speller This word could be confused with a
similar word. Next, say the word. Next, provide the words part of
speech and definition. Next, answer spellers questions, if any,
about the word.
joust \ \
Originally Latin, this word went through French before becoming
English.
verb (Websters Third page 1221, column 3)
[Has differently pronounced variant: just.]
to fight on horseback as a knight or man-at-arms.
The eager young knights would joust until both they and their
horses were exhausted.
104. Say to the speller This word has a near-homonym. Next, say
the word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition.
Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
domain \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 670, column 3, 81a, column 3)
[Has near homonym: demesne.]
a large subdivision of the Internet consisting of computers or
sites with a common purpose or a common geographic location and
denoted in Internet addresses by an abbreviation.
"Dot com" is an extremely common domain on the Internet.
105. premium \ \
This word is from Latin.
adjective (Websters Third page 1789, column 3)
commanding a higher than usual price especially because of
superior quality.
Jose didn't mind paying a little more on his cable bill for the
commercial-free premium channels.
106. basically \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
Latin and then French before becoming English, plus an English
combining form.
adverb (Websters Third page 181, column 3)
fundamentally, essentially.
Alistair preferred to believe that all people are basically the
same on the inside.
107. awash \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of two originally English elements.
adjective (Websters Third page 152, column 2)
marked by an abundance : full, overflowing.
The amusement park was awash with children on the beautiful
summer day.
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page 30
108. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
entrance \ \
This word went from French to English.
noun (Websters Third page 758, column 3)
[Has homonym: entrants.]
the means or place for physical entering (as a door, gate, or
passage).
The entrance to the secret garden was so covered in ivy it was
almost impossible to find.
109. logical \ \
This word is from Latin.
adjective (Websters Third page 1330, column 3)
that is in accordance with inferences reasonably drawn from
preceding or surrounding or predictable facts or events or
circumstances.
Kendall looked from the broken vase on the floor to the angry
face of her father and reached the logical conclusion that she was
grounded.
110. moviegoer \ \
This word is from a part that went from Latin to French to
English plus an originally English part.
noun (Websters Third page 1480, column 2)
one that goes to see motion pictures especially frequently.
An avid moviegoer, Roger wanted to be a film critic when he grew
up.
111. gorgon \ \
This word went from Greek to Latin before becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 980, column 3)
one resembling one of three sisters in Greek mythology having
snake-entwined hair and glaring eyes capable of turning the
beholder to stone.
Fred was convinced that the school librarian, Mrs. Pince, was a
terrifying gorgon who, like Medusa, turned children who talked in
the library to stone.
112. stubble \ \
Originally Latin, this word went through French before becoming
English.
noun (Websters Third page 2267, column 3)
a short growth of beard.
The unusual appearance of stubble on Bob's face must mean he's
trying to grow a beard.
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page 31
113. introverted \ \
This word is from Latin.
adjective (Websters Third page 1187, column 2)
marked by a habitual tendency toward being predominantly
concerned with one's own thoughts and feelings.
Rebecca's introverted personality made it hard for her to meet
people.
114. enviable \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of a part that went from Latin to French to
English plus an English combining form.
adjective (Websters Third page 760, column 1)
highly desirable.
Babette's ability to spell on stage under pressure was
enviable.
115. merge \ \
This word is from Latin.
verb (Websters Third page 1414, column 1)
to cause to combine or unite.
The owners have plans to merge their smaller companies into one
large one.
116. Halloween or
Hallowe'en \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is short for an English phrase.
noun (Websters Third page 1023, column 2)
the evening of October 31 which is often devoted by young people
to merrymaking and playing pranks sometimes involving petty damage
to property.
Unable to decide between dressing up as Batman or Superman for
Halloween, Lucas eventually decided to wear both costumes and call
himself "Super Bat."
117. science \ \
Originally Latin, this word passed through French before
becoming English.
noun (Websters Third page 2032, column 3)
a branch or department of systematized knowledge that is or can
be made a specific object of study.
Petra's favorite branch of science is chemistry.
The following word has two correct spellings. Either one of the
two spellings listed below should be accepted as correct; the
speller only needs to provide one correct spelling.
-
page 32
118. Say to the speller This word has a homonym. Next, say the
word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition. Next,
answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
taught \ \
This word is originally English.
verb (Websters Third page 2344, column 1)
[Has homonym and near homonyms: taut, taunt, tot.]
caused to know how to do something : showed how.
Bryce's cousin taught him how to juggle.
119. quaver \ \
This word is originally English.
verb (Websters Third page 1862, column 1)
to utter sound in tremulous uncertain tones.
Zara tried not to let her voice quaver as she gave a
presentation to the whole class.
120. wren \ \
This word is originally English.
noun (Websters Third page 2639, column 3)
any of numerous small more or less brown singing birds.
A wren came to the bird feeder outside the living room
window.
121. lawyer \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is made up of two originally English parts.
noun (Websters Third page 1280, column 3)
one whose profession is to conduct lawsuits for clients or to
advise as to the prosecution or defense of lawsuits or as to legal
rights and obligations in other matters.
Trish's parents thought that her hiring a lawyer to negotiate
bedtimes with them was a little much.
122. bassoon \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from a Latin word that became Italian and then
French.
noun (Websters Third page 184, column 1)
a tenor or bass double-reed woodwind instrument having a long
doubled conical wooden body connected to the mouthpiece by a thin
metal tube.
Kirk plays bassoon in the college symphony.
123. trifle \ \
This word went from French to English.
noun (Websters Third page 2443, column 3)
an insignificant or relatively small amount (as of money).
Though the bracelet from her grandmother was worth only a
trifle, Morgan treasured it always.
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page 33
124. permission \ \
This word went from Latin to French to English.
noun (Websters Third page 1683, column 3)
formal consent : authorization.
Before he could go on the field trip, Cy had to get permission
from his parents.
125. carriage \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word came from French to English.
noun (Websters Third page 342, column 3)
a horse-drawn vehicle designed for private use and for comfort
or elegance.
Cinderella's carriage was a pumpkin that her fairy godmother had
transformed to take her to the ball.
126. bolide \ \
This word is from Greek.
noun (Websters Third page 248, column 2)
an exploding or exploded meteor or meteorite.
What May thought was a UFO turned out to actually be a
bolide.
127. cohesive \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of an originally Latin part plus an English
combining form.
adjective (Websters Third page 440, column 3)
fitting together naturally and consistently with suitable order,
proportion, and similarity of tone.
Raj's rumpled appearance was not cohesive with his wealth.
128. turmoil \ \
This word is of unknown origin.
noun (Websters Third page 2466, column 1)
an utterly confused, extremely agitated, or tumultuous state or
condition.
The locker room was in turmoil when the star forward was
injured.
129. genetic \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
Latin.
adjective (Websters Third page 946, column 1)
of, relating to, produced by, or being one of the elements of
the germ plasm serving as specific transmitters of hereditary
characteristics.
After both her husband and daughter slid on the ice, Linda
wondered if klutziness was genetic.
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page 34
130. forbidden \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is originally from English.
adjective (Websters Third page 887, column 1)
not allowed : not permitted : prohibited.
After almost driving the lawnmower into the pond, Laurie was
forbidden to mow ever again.
131. mugwump \ \
This word is from Natick.
noun (Websters Third page 1483, column 3)
the head or leader of any body of persons.
In the Harry Potter books, the head of the International
Confederation of Wizards is deemed the Supreme Mugwump.
132. vouch \ \
This word went from Latin to French before becoming English.
verb (Websters Third page 2565, column 3)
to give tangible support to : prove, substantiate.
Rosemary calmly told the detective that she had several people
willing to vouch for her whereabouts on the night of the crime.
133. avenge \ \
This word was probably formed in English from an originally
French word.
verb (Websters Third page 150, column 2)
to take vengeance for or on behalf of (oneself or another).
Tom promised to avenge his sister's loss in the snowball
fight.
134. morale \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word came from French, which formed it from Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 1468, column 3)
a sense of common purpose or a degree of dedication to a common
task regarded as characteristic of or dominant in a particular
group or organization.
Student morale improved after the school was renovated.
135. disarray \ \
This word is from a French word that then became English.
noun (Websters Third page 643, column 2)
a lack of order or sequence.
Rory's frantic search for his ringing cell phone left his room
in disarray.
136. talisman \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word originally came from Greek through Arabic, and came to
English from Italian, Spanish or French.
noun (Websters Third page 2333, column 3)
an object thought to act as a charm to avert evil and bring good
fortune.
Vern showed us his rabbit's foot, which he claimed was an
effective talisman.
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page 35
137. Say to the speller This word has a near-homonym. Next, say
the word. Next, provide the words part of speech and definition.
Next, answer spellers questions, if any, about the word.
dissemble \ \
This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
word.
verb (Websters Third page 656, column 2)
[Has near homonym: disassemble.]
to conceal facts, motives, intentions, or feelings under some
pretense.
Ash tried to dissemble her anger by pasting on a bright
smile.
138. ailment \ \
This word consists of an originally English part plus an English
combining form.
noun (Websters Third page 45, column 2)
a bodily sickness, disorder, or chronic disease.
After waking up with a sore throat, Talia had some tea to soothe
her ailment.
139. infamous \ \
This word is from Latin.
adjective (Websters Third page 1157, column 2)
having a reputation of the worst kind : notorious as being of
vicious, contemptible, or criminal character.
Al Capone was an infamous Chicago gangster.
140. duplicity \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 703, column 1)
deception by pretending to entertain one set of feelings and
acting under the influence of another.
A spy must be capable of constant duplicity.
141. infringe \ \
This word is from Latin.
verb (Websters Third page 1161, column 2)
to neglect to fulfill or obey : violate.
A person's rights end when they begin to infringe on the rights
of others.
142. manufacture \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word came from French, which formed it from Latin.
verb (Websters Third page 1378, column 3)
to produce according to an organized plan and with division of
labor.
The new plant was to manufacture 7,000 cars a day.
-
page 36
143. freight \ \
This word was formed in English from either a Dutch word or a
German word.
noun (Websters Third page 908, column 1)
something that is loaded for transportation : cargo.
The semi truck was delivering its freight to a vendor in
Arkansas.
144. piety \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word came from French, which formed it from Latin.
noun (Websters Third page 1713, column 1)
zeal in religious service or worship : devoutness.
Deacon Jones, noted for his piety and devotion to the church,
has greeted visitors every Sunday for nearly 30 years.
145. vivacious \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from Latin.
adjective (Websters Third page 2560, column 1)
lively in temper or conduct : sprightly.
Randi's vivacious personality made her perfect for her school's
pep squad.
146. expunge \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word consists of two originally Latin elements.
verb (Websters Third page 803, column 3)
to obliterate (a material record or trace) by any means.
The criminal was careful to expunge his fingerprints from the
crime scene.
147. bulwark \ \
[ \ \ ]
Originally German, this word went through Dutch before becoming
English.
noun (Websters Third page 295, column 1)
something that offers strong support or protection in danger : a
powerful means of defense.
In the video game, Cameron's character was part of the last
bulwark against alien invasion.
148. shiatsu \ \
This word is from Japanese.
noun (Websters Third page 128a, column 3)
a massage with the fingers especially of a form that originated
in Japan applied to those specific areas of the body used in
acupuncture.
Ramona's acupuncturist recommended regular sessions of shiatsu
to keep her neck muscles relaxed.
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page 37
149. lanai \ \
[ \ \ ]
This word is from Hawaiian.
noun (Websters Third pag