2020

DISTRICT PRONOUNCER GUIDE

CONTENTS
Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols ................................................................................................................. 2
Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation and Language of Origin ................................................................................... 3
Tips for Conducting Your District Spelling Bee .......................................................................................................... 4
Rules for Local Spelling Bees ...................................................................................................................................... 6
Words 1-75: 2020 School Spelling Bee Study List Words .......................................................................................... 11
Words 76-300: Words Selected from 2020 Words of the Champions ..................................................................... 25
Words 301-400: Words Selected from Merriam-Webster Unabridged* .................................................................. 63
Numerical Index of Spelling Words ......................................................................................................................... 80
Alphabetical Index of Spelling Words ......................................................................................................................82
Optional Oral Vocabulary Rounds ............................................................................................................................84
Optional Written Vocabulary Tests and Answer Keys .............................................................................................. 92

*Merriam-Webster Unabridged, copyright 2019, Merriam-Webster (http://unabridged.merriam-webster.com)

©2019, Scripps National Spelling Bee

All rights reserved.
 Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols

 ........... banana, collect  ............ indicates that a preceding vowel is pronounced with the nasal
,  ...... humdrum passages open, as in French un bon vin blanc \\
 ........... as in one pronunciation used by r-droppers for bird (alternative  ........... sing \\, singer \()\, finger \()\, ink \\
\\)  ........... bone, snow, beau; one pronunciation of glory
 ........... two-value symbol equivalent to the unstressed variants \\, \\, as in  ........... saw, all, saurian; one pronunciation of horrid
habit, duchess (\\ = \b, -\)  .......... French buf, German Hlle
 ............ immediately preceding \\, \\, \\, \\, as in battle, mitten, and in  .......... French feu, German Hhle
one pronunciation of cap and bells \--\, lock and key \--\;  .......... coin, destroy, strawy, sawing
immediately following \\, \\, \\, as in one pronunciation of  ......... (in transcriptions of foreign words only) indicates a vowel with the
French table, prisme, titre quality of o in bone but longer, not the sound of oo in food: comte
 .......... as in one pronunciation used by r-droppers for bird (alternative \\) \\
 .......... operation; stressed, as in bird as pronounced by speakers who do  ........... pepper, lip
not drop r; stressed and with centered period after the \\, as in one ............ rarity, one pronunciation of tar
pronunciation of burry (alternative \\) and in one pronunciation  ........... source, less
of hurry (alternative \\); stressed and with centered period after  ......... with nothing between, as in shy, mission, machine, special
\r\ as in one pronunciation of hurry (alternative \\) (actually, this is a single sound, not two); with a stress mark
 ........... mat, map between, two sounds as in death’s-head \\
 ........... day, fade, date, aorta  ............ tie, attack; one pronunciation of latter (alternative \\)
 ........... bother, cot; most American speakers have the same vowel in  .......... with nothing between, as in thin, ether (actually, this is a single
father, cart sound, not two); with a stress mark between, two sounds as in
 ........... father as pronounced by speakers who do not rhyme it with bother; knighthood \\
farther and cart as pronounced by r-droppers  .......... then, either (actually, this is a single sound, not two)
 .......... bad, bag, fan as often pronounced in an area having New York  ........... rule, fool, youth, union \\, few \\
City and Washington, D.C., on its perimeter; in an emphatic  ........... pull, wood, curable \\
syllable, as before a pause, often \\  .......... German fllen, hbsch
 .......... as in some pronunciations of bag, bang, pass  .......... French rue, German fhlen
 ......... now, loud, some pronunciations of talcum  ........... vivid, give
 ........... baby, rib  .......... we, away
 ......... chin, nature \()\ (actually, this sound is \\ + \\)  ........... yard, cue \\, union \\
 ........... elder, undone  ............ (in transcriptions of foreign words only) indicates that during
 ........... as in the usual American pronunciation of latter, ladder articulation of the sound represented by the preceding character the
 ........... bet, bed tip of the tongue has substantially the position it has for the
,  ...... beat, nosebleed, evenly, sleepy articulation of the first sound of yard, as in French digne \\
 ........... as in one pronunciation of evenly, sleepy, envious,  ......... youth, union, cue, few
igneous (alternative \\)  ......... curable
 .......... (in transcriptions of foreign words only) indicates a vowel with the  ........... zone, raise
quality of e in bet but long, not the sound of ee in sleep: en arrière  ......... with nothing between, as in vision, azure \()\ (actually, this is
\\ a single sound, not two); with a stress mark between, two sounds
 ......... as in one pronunciation of elk, helm as in rosehill \\
 ............ fifty, cuff  ............ mark preceding a syllable with primary (strongest) stress:
 ........... go, big \\
 ........... hat, ahead  ............ mark preceding a syllable with secondary (next-strongest) stress:
 ........ whale as pronounced by those who do not have the same \\
pronunciation for both whale and wail () indicate that what is symbolized between is present in some
 ............ tip, one pronunciation of banish (alternative unstressed \\), one utterances but not in others: factory \() \
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
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 Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation and Language of Origin

Pronunciation

For many words in Merriam-Webster Unabridged, copyright 2019, Merriam-Webster (http://unabridged.merriam-

webster.com), more than one pronunciation is offered. In this district 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
dictionary’s 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.

Many of the variations in pronunciation listed in Merriam-Webster Unabridged 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 dictionary’s pronunciation data that differ phonemically from the chief pronunciation. Minor
phonetic variations that are described in the dictionary 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 Merriam-Webster Unabridged 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 Merriam-Webster
Unabridged. For example, Merriam-Webster Unabridged 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 Merriam-Webster Unabridged. Where Merriam-Webster Unabridged 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, generally with the earliest language listed first followed by the subsequent
language(s). We give the separate etymologies of each word element regularly used in Merriam-Webster Unabridged,
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. .

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
 Tips for Conducting Your District Spelling Bee
1. Help your students prepare by:

• giving your students the 2020 School Spelling Bee Study List from the log-in section of spellingbee.com, and

• providing 2020 Words of the Champions from the log-in section of spellingbee.com.

2. Familiarize yourself with the 2020 District Pronouncer Guide, in which:

• words 1-75 were selected from the 2020 School Spelling Bee Study List,

• words 76-300 were selected from 2020 Words of the Champions,

• words 301-400 were selected from Merriam-Webster Unabridged,

• the 50 questions in the Intermediate Oral Vocabulary Round are based on words from the 2020 School Spelling Bee Study
List,

• the 50 questions in the Advanced Oral Vocabulary Round are based on words from 2020 Words of the Champions,

• the 25 questions on the Intermediate Written Vocabulary Test are based on words from the 2020 School Spelling Bee Study
List, and

• the 25 questions on the Advanced Written Vocabulary Test are based on words from 2020 Words of the Champions.

3. Acquaint yourself with the Rules for Local Spelling Bees (available beginning on page 6 of the
2020 District Pronouncer Guide).

4. Pronouncers, please note:

 Before the spelling bee gets under way, review the 2020 District Pronouncer Guide and familiarize yourself with the
correct pronunciations of the words.

 One pronunciation is listed alongside each word in the 2020 District 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 2020 District Pronouncer Guide. Vocabulary sections list
only the first pronunciation.

 The 2020 District 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 word’s
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 2020
District Pronouncer Guide. The part of speech provided matches that of the definition listed and coincides with the
word’s 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.

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5. 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 2020 District 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 word from one section of the list — words from the School Spelling Bee Study List (any word with a number
between 1 and 75), words from 2020 Words of the Champions (any word with a number between 76 and 300), or additional
words (any word with a number greater than 300) — in another section of the list. Also avoid mixing spelling words and
vocabulary questions in a single round.

 Integration of vocabulary (oral or written) in your competition is at the discretion of contest organizers.

 Preserve fairness by ensuring that all spellers spelling or answering vocabulary questions in the same round receive words
from the same section of the 2020 District Pronouncer Guide.

 Merriam-Webster Unabridged is the final authority for the spelling of all words that appear on Scripps National Spelling Bee
word lists. We suggest that you have Merriam-Webster Unabridged open and available during your spelling bee. If you
cannot subscribe to Merriam-Webster Unabridged for whatever reason, Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, eleventh
edition, copyright 2003, Merriam-Webster, Inc., is the preferred alternative.

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
 2020 Rules for Local Spelling Bees

Preface
The Scripps National Spelling Bee (SNSB) encourages spellers, parents, teachers and spelling bee officials to read these rules prior to any local
spelling bee. The SNSB defines a local spelling bee as any spelling bee other than the May 25-28, 2020 championship spelling bee in Oxon
Hill, Maryland (“national finals”).
Spellers and spellers’ parents and teachers should check with their local spelling bee officials for the rules in effect in their area, as local
spelling bee officials are encouraged but not required to use these rules. Spelling bee officials include the pronouncer, judges, coordinator and
sponsor.
While local spelling bee officials have the prerogative to amend Rules 2 through 11, amendment(s) — particularly any amendment(s) to the
end-of-bee procedure — should be undertaken only with careful consideration of the various outcomes that may result from the amendment(s).
The SNSB has no authority over the conduct of local spelling bees and will not render judgments relating to their conduct or outcomes.
Individuals bearing complaints about 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 national finals. 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 national finals operate under a significantly different set of rules called the Contest Rules of the 2020 Scripps National Spelling Bee. These
rules contain provisions that are specific to unique conditions at the national finals. The successful implementation of many national finals rules
at the local level is considered impossible and therefore is not recommended.

Rules
1. Eligibility: A speller qualifying for the 2020 SNSB national weekday for 34 of the 38 weeks between August 26,
finals must meet these requirements: 2019, and May 18, 2020.

(1) The speller must not have won a SNSB national finals. (8) The speller must not have reached his/her 15th
birthday on or before August 31, 2019.
(2) The speller must attend a school that is officially
enrolled with the SNSB. (9) The speller must have been declared a champion of an
SNSB-sanctioned final local spelling bee taking place on
(3) The speller must not have passed beyond the eighth or after February 1, 2020, or be a spelling champion
grade on or before August 31, 2019. whose application for participation in the SNSB’s self-
sponsorship program has received final approval by the
(4) The speller must not have repeated any grade for the SNSB.
purpose of extending spelling bee eligibility. If the speller
has repeated any grade, the speller must notify the SNSB (10) The speller, upon qualifying for the 2020 SNSB
of the circumstances of grade repetition by March 31, national finals, must submit to the SNSB a completed
2020; and the SNSB will, at its sole discretion, determine Champion Bio Form, a Certification of Eligibility Form, a
the speller’s eligibility status on or before April 30, 2020. signed Appearance Consent and Release Form, and a
photo. The speller will notify the SNSB — at least 24
(5) The speller — or the speller’s parent, legal guardian or hours prior to the first day of the SNSB national finals —
school official acting on the speller’s behalf — must not if any of the statements made on the Certification of
have declared to another entity an academic classification Eligibility Form are no longer true or require updating.
higher than eighth grade for any purpose, including high The speller’s sponsor will provide access to the necessary
school graduation equivalency or proficiency forms.
examinations and/or examinations such as the PSAT,
SAT or ACT. (11) The speller must not have any first-, second- or third-
degree relatives (i.e., sibling, parent, grandparent, aunt,
(6) The speller must not have earned the legal equivalent uncle, niece, nephew, half-sibling, first cousin or great-
of a high school diploma. grandparent) who are current employees of The E.W.
Scripps Company.
(7) The speller must not eschew normal school activity to
study for spelling bees. The SNSB defines normal school The SNSB may disqualify prior to or during competition any
activity as adherence to at least four courses of study speller who is not in compliance with any of its eligibility
other than language arts, spelling, Latin, Greek, requirements; and it may — at any time between the
vocabulary and etymology for at least four hours per conclusion of the 2020 SNSB national finals and April 30,

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2021 — require any speller who is found to have not been in
compliance with any of the eligibility requirements to forfeit Speller’s requests: The pronouncer responds to the
the prizes, rank and other benefits accorded to the speller as a speller’s requests for a definition, sentence, part of
result of participation in the 2020 SNSB national finals. speech, language(s) of origin and alternate
pronunciation(s) as listed in the competition word list
2. Format: A local spelling bee is conducted in rounds. Each produced by the SNSB. The pronouncer does not
speller remaining in the spelling bee at the start of a round entertain root word questions, requests for alternate
spells one word or answers one vocabulary item in each round definitions or requests for slower pronunciation.
— except in the case of a written, multiple choice or online
test. The spelling bee may be conducted orally or in writing or Pronouncer’s sense of helpfulness: The pronouncer may
in a manner that is a combination of the two. If, however, the offer word information — without the speller having
spelling bee officials specify an oral format, the speller may requested the information — if the pronouncer senses that
request a written format only as specified in the term of Rule the information is helpful and the information is presented
4: Special needs. in the entry for the word in a 2020 SNSB word list.

3. Word list: Local spelling bee officials are responsible for In Oral Vocabulary Rounds:
selecting the word lists for use in their spelling bees and are
encouraged to select word lists generated by the SNSB that are Procedure: The pronouncer reads aloud the vocabulary
dated 2020. These word lists include many words that appear item and both options (A) and (B), but does not indicate
in the current edition of two study resources — the School which is correct.
Spelling Bee Study List and Words of the Champions. Also,
these word lists end with a section of words that do not appear Homonyms: If a word has one or more homonyms, the
in the aforementioned study resources and are for use near the pronouncer indicates which word is in question by
end of a local spelling bee, if the local bee officials determine spelling the word aloud.
that their use in the spelling bee is warranted. All words
Speller’s requests: The pronouncer responds to the
appearing on 2020 SNSB word lists are entries in Merriam-
speller’s requests for the question and/or answer options
Webster Unabridged, the official dictionary of the SNSB,
to be repeated. The pronouncer may also provide the
available at http://unabridged.merriam-webster.com/. spelling of the word in question.
Merriam-Webster Unabridged is the final authority and sole
source for the spelling of words; the primary source used to 6. Judges’ role: The judges uphold the rules and determine
craft the pronunciations, definitions and language origins for whether or not words are spelled correctly or vocabulary items
the SNSB word lists; and the only authority to be consulted by are answered correctly. They also render final decisions on
spelling bee officials, as well as the sole source used during appeals in accordance with Rule 11. They are in complete
the spelling bee to verify the information in 2020 SNSB word control of the competition and their decision is final on all
lists. Some alternate pronunciations appearing in 2020 SNSB questions.
word lists may have been drawn from Merriam-Webster print
publications because the SNSB deemed the information Interaction with the speller: Because seeing the speller’s
helpful to the speller. lip movements may be critical in detecting
misunderstandings or misspellings, the judges encourage
4. Special needs: Local spelling bee officials will strive to spellers to face them when pronouncing and spelling the
provide accommodation for spellers who have physical word.
challenges. All requests for spelling bee officials to
accommodate special needs involving sight, hearing, speech or Notice of rules: The judges ensure that all spellers and
movement should be directed to spelling bee officials well in audience members are given an opportunity to receive a
advance of the spelling bee date. The spelling bee judges have complete copy of the rules prior to the start of the spelling
discretionary power to amend oral and/or written spelling bee.
requirements on a case-by-case basis for spellers with
diagnosed medical conditions involving sight, hearing, speech Misunderstandings: The judges participate in the
or movement. exchange of information between the speller and
pronouncer if they feel that clarification is needed. Also,
5. Pronouncer’s role: The pronouncer strives to pronounce the judges listen carefully to the speller’s pronunciation of
words according to the diacritical markings in 2020 SNSB the word; and, if they sense that the speller has
word lists. misunderstood the word, the judges work with the speller
and pronouncer until they are satisfied that reasonable
In Oral Spelling Rounds: attempts have been made to assist the speller in
understanding the word. While the judges are responsible
Homonyms: If a word has one or more homonyms, the for attempting to detect a speller’s misunderstanding, it is
pronouncer indicates which word is to be spelled by sometimes impossible to detect a misunderstanding until
defining the word.
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 an error has been made. The judges are not responsible 8. Correction of a misspelling: The pronouncer and judges
for the speller’s misunderstanding. will not ask the speller to correct another speller’s misspelling,
even in end-of-bee circumstances.
Pronouncer errors: The judges compare the pronouncer’s
pronunciation with the diacritical markings in the word 9. Errors: Upon providing an incorrect spelling of a word or
list. If the judges feel that the pronouncer’s pronunciation an incorrect answer to a vocabulary item, the speller
does not match the pronunciation specified in the immediately drops out of the competition, except as provided
diacritical markings, the judges direct the pronouncer to in Rule 10.
correct the error as soon as it is detected.
10. End-of-bee procedure:
Disqualifications for reasons other than error: The judges
will disqualify a speller (1) who refuses a request to start If all spellers in a round misspell or answer vocabulary
spelling or to provide an answer to a vocabulary item; (2) items incorrectly: If none of the spellers remaining in the
who does not approach the microphone when it is time to spelling bee at the start of a round spells a word correctly
receive the word or question; (3) who does not comply or answers a vocabulary item correctly during that round,
with the eligibility requirements; (4) who engages in all remain in the competition and a new spelling round
unsportsmanlike conduct; (5) who, in the process of begins.
retracing a spelling, alters the letters or sequence of letters
from those first uttered; (6) who, in the process of Ties: All spellers eliminated in the same round are tied for
spelling, utters unintelligible or nonsense sounds; or (7) the same place. After the champion has been determined,
who, in the process of providing an answer in an oral spelling bee officials may opt to conduct tiebreakers (of
vocabulary round, provides a blend of correct and their own design) if tiebreakers are necessary for the
incorrect information. (For example: If in answering the awarding of prizes or the determination of qualifying
question, “What is porridge made from? A. fur, or B. spellers for the next level of competition.
grain,” the speller provides as an answer either “A. grain”
or “B. fur.”). If only one speller in a round spells correctly or answers a
Speller activities that do not merit disqualification: The vocabulary item correctly:
judges may not disqualify a speller (1) for failing to If only one speller spells correctly in a round, a new one-
pronounce the word either before or after spelling it; (2) word spelling round begins and the speller is given an
for asking a question; or (3) for noting or failing to note opportunity to spell a word on the list (anticipated
the capitalization of a word, the presence of a diacritical championship word). If the speller succeeds in correctly
mark, the presence of a hyphen or other form of spelling the anticipated championship word in this one-
punctuation, or spacing between words in an open word round, the speller is declared the champion.
compound.

7. Speller’s 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 as listed on the pronouncer’s
competition word list produced by the SNSB.

In an oral vocabulary round, a speller may answer the item 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.

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.”

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 Example: In Round 12 there are four spellers. Spellers 6 and Judges: Do your records or an audio or video recording
21 misspell. Speller 30 spells correctly. Speller 42 misspells. indicate that the speller offered the correct letters in the
So, Speller 30 is the only speller in the round to spell correct order and never changed the order of letters?
correctly. Speller 30 begins Round 13 — a one-word round If yes, reinstate the speller even if the speller
— and is offered the anticipated championship word. Speller failed to say the word before or after spelling, or
30 correctly spells the anticipated championship word and is failed to indicate or incorrectly indicated
declared champion. capitalization, hyphen, spaces or diacritical
marks.
Example: Two spellers spell in Round 10. Speller 14 If no, deny the appeal.
misspells. Speller 25 spells correctly. Speller 25 begins
Round 11 — a one-word round — and is offered the B. The speller correctly spelled a homonym of the word in
anticipated championship word. Speller 25 correctly spells question.
the anticipated championship word and is declared champion. Judges: Did the pronouncer provide a definition? Refer to
Rule 5.
Example: Two spellers spell in Round 16. Speller 3 spells If no, reinstate the speller.
correctly. Speller 9 misspells. Speller 3 begins Round 17 — a If yes, deny the appeal.
one-word round — and is offered the anticipated
championship word. Speller 3 correctly spells the anticipated C. In an oral vocabulary round, the speller correctly identified
championship word and is declared champion. an answer matching the definition of a homonym of the word.
Judges: Did the pronouncer fail to spell the word? Refer to
VERY IMPORTANT: If a speller misspells the anticipated Rule 5.
championship word in a one-word round: A new spelling If yes, reinstate the speller.
round begins with ALL the spellers who participated in the If no, deny the appeal.
previous round. These spellers spell in their original order.
D. The speller correctly spelled an alternate spelling of the
Example: In Round 8 there are three spellers. Speller 12 spells word as listed in Merriam-Webster Unabridged (1) whose
correctly and Spellers 23 and 37 misspell. Round pronunciation is identical to the word in question, (2) whose
9 — a one-word round — begins, and Speller 12 is offered the definition is identical to the word in question, and (3) that is
anticipated championship word. Speller 12 misspells the clearly identified as a standard variant of the word in question.
anticipated championship word. Round 10 begins and includes Judges: Check Merriam-Webster Unabridged online.
Spellers 12, 23 and 37. The rules prescribe that spellers 12, 23 If all three criteria are met, reinstate the speller.
and 37 spell in their original order; so Speller 12 gets the next If fewer than three criteria are met, deny the
word on the list even though Speller 12 misspelled the previous appeal.
word on the list. Round 10 is not complete until all three spellers Also, note that spellings having temporal labels
have spelled. (such as archaic, obsolete), stylistic labels (such
as substandard, nonstandard), or regional labels
Tip: Spelling bee officials are encouraged to designate a (such as North, Midland, Irish) will not be
record keeper or judge to track the progress of spellers accepted as correct.
throughout the rounds. The record keeper’s information
will be helpful in preventing end-of-bee confusion. E. The officials did not adhere to Rule 10, the End-of-Bee
Teachers may access a recordkeeping sheet by logging procedure, or Rule 8.
into spellingbee.com and selecting Classroom or School Judges: Carefully examine Rules 8 and 10.
Spelling Bee, then Competition Guides. If you erred and the competition is still under
way, reinstate the speller.
11. Appeals: Provided that the appellant adheres to the Time If you erred and the competition has concluded,
contact the spelling bee coordinator for the next
and Manner Requirements specified herein, the judges will level of spelling bee for authorization to send
review appeals and render decisions on the following five both your declared champion and the speller (or
grounds: spellers) affected by the error to the next level of
competition.
A. The speller correctly spelled the word but was eliminated If you did not err, deny the appeal.
for misspelling it; failing to say the word before or after
spelling it; failing to indicate capitalization, hyphen, spaces or
diacritical marks; or incorrectly indicating capitalization,
hyphen, spaces or diacritical marks.

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
Invalid grounds for reinstatement: The judges will not Time and Manner Requirements: A written appeal must be
entertain appeals on the following grounds: hand-delivered to the designated official (usually the spelling
• The pronouncer allegedly mispronounced the word. bee coordinator/director) indicating the speller’s name, the
• The pronouncer offered pronunciations and/or word name and contact information of the person filing the appeal,
information that the speller did not request, and the the relationship of the person filing the appeal to the speller
unrequested information contributed to the misspelling. (must be a parent, guardian, teacher or principal of the
• One or all Bee officials indicated to the speller that the speller), the word in question, and the grounds for
speller was pronouncing the word correctly, but the
reinstatement. (See Grounds A-E herein.) The deadline for
speller’s spelling indicates that the speller wasn’t
pronouncing it correctly. delivering an appeal is before the speller affected would have
• One or all Bee officials did not inform the speller before received their next word had they stayed in the spelling bee.
spelling that the speller’s pronunciation was incorrect To minimize disruptions, however, effort should be made to
and/or that the speller was misunderstanding the word, and deliver an appeal by the end of the round in which the speller
this inaction contributed to the misspelling. was eliminated. When five or fewer spellers remain, the
• The speller offered a correct spelling as indicated in a written appeal requirement is suspended, and an oral appeal
dictionary other than Merriam-Webster Unabridged or must be made before the speller would have received their
other online or print sources. next word had they stayed in the spelling bee. While the
• The pronouncer did not answer a root word question or competition is in session, individuals who have filed appeals
provide the correct root word. may not directly approach the judges unless explicit
• The pronouncer did not honor the speller’s request to slow permission to approach the judges has been given. The judges
down the pronunciation of the word, break the word’s
pronunciation into syllables, or provide an alternate
will contact the speller if they decide to reinstate the speller.
definition or sentence. 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 to discuss with the speller’s
parent(s), legal guardian or teacher a denied appeal.

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 Words 1–75 are Scripps National Spelling Bee School Spelling Bee Study List Words.
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 word’s homonym status is probably noted
at the word’s entry in this guide. We encourage you to include these words in your bee,
provided you indicate the word’s 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 Merriam-Webster
Unabridged 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.

1. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
shake  This word is originally English.
 verb
[Has homonym: sheikh/sheik.]
to clasp hands.
Marta always takes the time to meet her fans and shake their
hands.
2. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
proof  This word is from a Latin word that passed through French
 before becoming English.
noun
[Could be confused with prove.]
evidence operating to determine the finding or judgment of a
tribunal.
The look on his face was all the proof Cody’s dad needed to
know he was the one who ate all the cookies.
3. stark  This word is originally English.
 adjective
bleak, barren, desolate.
The landscape in Death Valley is as stark as it is beautiful.
4. burlap  This word is from a word that is perhaps from a Norse and
 English part and an originally English part.
noun
a coarse heavy plain-woven fabric usually of jute or hemp used
for bagging and wrapping and in furniture and linoleum
manufacture.
Kristina ordered 20 burlap potato sacks to use in a race at the
family reunion.

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5. secret  This word is from a word that went from Latin to French to
 English.
adjective
kept from knowledge or view : concealed, hidden.
Nicole kept her fear of heights a secret as her boyfriend took
her to the top of the Space Needle for their anniversary.
6. 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.
grown-ups  Both parts of this word are originally English.
 plural noun
those that have arrived at full development especially in size,
strength or intellectual capacity : those that have reached full
maturity.
Why is it that kids want to be grown-ups and grown-ups want
to be kids?
7. special  This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
 English.
adjective
distinguished by some unusual quality : uncommon,
noteworthy, extraordinary.
Monty and Pat always celebrate their anniversary with a
special ice cream dessert.
8. honest  This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
 English.
adjective
free from fraud or deception : legitimate : truthful.
Ethan was shocked to discover that his stockbroker was not the
honest fellow he seemed to be.
9. health  This word is originally English.
 noun
the condition of an organism or one of its parts in which it
performs its vital functions normally or properly : the state of
being sound in body or mind.
When Ethan was sick, it was always his mother who nursed
him back to health.
10. sprawl  This word is originally English.
 verb
to lie or sit with arms and legs stretched out carelessly or
awkwardly : spread out.
To see all the children sprawl on the ground as they tried to
participate in the yoga class was a hilarious sight.

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11. certain  This word came to English from French, which formed it from
 a Latin word.
adjective
given to or marked by complete assurance and conviction, lack
of doubt, reservation, suspicion or wavering through or as if
through infallible knowledge or perception.
Marcellus was certain that he would make the varsity soccer
team in the fall.
12. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
plumbing  This word consists of a part that went from Latin to French to
 English plus an English combining form.
noun
[Has homonym: plumming.]
the pipes, fixtures and other apparatus concerned in the
introduction, distribution and disposal of water in a building.
The plumbing in the Victorian home is old and leaky and
needs to be replaced.
13. ancient  This word is from a word that went from Latin to French to
 English.
adjective
existing from a long-past date or period : of early origin.
Annika wants to go visit the ancient Mayan ruins in Belize.
14. tapestry  This word consists of an element that probably went from
 Iranian to Greek, then to French, and then to English, plus an
English combining form.
noun
a heavy handwoven textile for hangings, curtains and
upholstery.
Tillie was surprised to learn that the vibrant colors in the
tapestry were produced hundreds of years ago from plant dyes.
15. attagirl  This word is originally English.
 interjection
- used to express encouragement, approval or admiration to a
woman or girl.
Coach Smith yelled, “Attagirl! Way to hit a home run!”
16. 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.
hunky-dory  The first part of this word is from an English word that came
 from Dutch, and the second part is of unknown origin.
adjective
quite satisfactory : fine.
After a brief health scare, the actor assured the director that
everything was hunky-dory and the show could continue.

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
17. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
squawk  This word is probably from a word of Scandinavian origin plus
 an originally English word of imitative origin.
verb
[Could be confused with scrawk.]
to make a loud harsh abrupt raucous outcry.
The squawk of the toucan was almost deafening.
18. parcel  Originally Latin, this word went through French before
 becoming English.
noun
a wrapped bundle of one or more objects : a package.
Natalie took a parcel and several letters to the post office.
19. commotion  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
noisy confusion.
Arthur couldn’t hear Etienne over the commotion in the
hallway.
20. beatboxing  This word consists of an originally English element plus an
 element that went from Greek to Latin to English plus an
English combining form.
noun
a musical style and technique based on the solo
unaccompanied vocal imitation of percussion and turntabling
sounds.
To learn more about beatboxing, scientists have used MRI
machines to examine artists while they perform.
21. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
furrow  This word is originally English.
 verb
[Could be confused with furlough.]
to till as if with a plow : cultivate.
The farmer had to furrow the soil with the plough before
planting seeds.
22. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
smudge  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Could be confused with smouch/smutch.]
a blurry spot or streak : splotch, smear.
Phillip’s teacher refused to accept his homework because of
the large smudge across the answer column.

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23. garland  This word is from a perhaps originally Germanic word that
 became French before becoming English.
noun
a wreath or festoon of leaves or flowers to be worn on the head
or used to decorate an object.
Clementine solemnly placed a garland of daisies on the
statue’s head while the choir sang the school song.
24. cottage  The first part of this word is originally English but went
 through French and then back into English and the second part
is originally French.
noun
a small house designed typically for summer use.
Jazmyne’s family visited their cottage near Lake Erie every
summer in July.
25. 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.
caroling or  Originally from Greek, this word passed through Latin and
carolling  then French before becoming English.
verb
going about outdoors in a group singing Christmas carols on
Christmas Eve.
Ellie and her friends always enjoy caroling in their
neighborhood.
26. shepherd  This word is formed in English from originally English
 elements.
noun
a man employed in tending, feeding and guarding sheep,
especially in a flock that is grazing.
The pastoral painting depicted a shepherd sitting on a hill and
watching his flock below.
27. surmised  Probably from an originally Latin word, this word passed from
 French to English.
verb
imagined without certain knowledge : inferred on slight
grounds : formed a notion of on slight proof : guessed.
Dia surmised that it was bedtime by how dark it had become
outside.

At the end of your round, would you like to include a round of oral vocabulary questions in
your competition? Turn to page 84 to begin an intermediate 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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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
28. ramparts  This word was formed in French from a Latin-derived element
 and an element that passed from Latin to Old Provençal to
French.
plural noun
things that fortify, defend or secure against attack or intrusion :
protective barriers.
The baron’s castle was protected from the invading army by
strong ramparts.
29. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
garnet  This word is from a Latin-derived French word that then
 became English.
noun
[Has homonym: garnett.]
a brittle mineral usually red in color and occurring mainly in
crystals and used as a semiprecious stone and as an abrasive.
Arabella asked the jeweler to suggest a setting for the garnet
she inherited from her great-aunt.
30. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
amino  This word is from a word that consists of a part that went from
 Egyptian to Greek to Latin plus a combining form that went
 from Latin to French to English.
adjective
[Could be confused with imino.]
relating to or containing the group NH2 or a substituted group
NHR or NR2 united to a radical other than an acid radical.
The amino groups present in a compound determine what type
of protein is formed.
31. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
barograph  This word consists of a Greek part plus a part that went from
 Greek to Latin to French.
noun
[Could be confused with paragraph.]
an automatic instrument for recording variations of
atmospheric pressure : a self-registering barometer.
The weather station in Antarctica was supplied with a
thermometer, a weather vane and a barograph.

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32. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
teak  This word is from a Malayalam word that passed to
 Portuguese.
noun
[Could be confused with deke.]
the hard, strong, durable, yellowish brown wood of a tall East
Indian timber tree now planted in West Africa and tropical
America for its wood, which is highly resistant to insect attack
and to warping and is used especially for shipbuilding.
Andrea bought a table and chairs for her patio that were made
of aged teak.
33. luggage  This word consists of a part that probably went from
 Scandinavian to English plus a combining form that went from
Greek-derived Latin to French to English.
noun
suitcases, traveling bags and other articles containing a
traveler’s belongings : baggage.
Harriet works as part of the airport’s security team that checks
luggage.
34. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
tarry  This word is originally English.
 verb
[Has homonym: terry.]
to delay or be tardy in acting or doing : procrastinate, dawdle.
Martha reminded Daisy not to tarry on her way to school.
35. throttle  This word is originally English.
 verb
to impede or check the breathing of by any means : choke.
After he cheated at Go Fish for the ninth time in a row, Natsu
valiantly fought the urge to throttle her little brother.
36. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
brayed  Originally of Celtic origin, this word passed from Latin to
 French to English.
verb
[Has homonym: braid.]
uttered a characteristic loud harsh cry — used of a donkey.
When the donkey brayed, it sounded like it was saying
“eeyore” — hence the name of the donkey from Winnie-the-
Pooh.

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37. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
transistor  This word was formed in English from two Latin-derived
 English words.
noun
[Could be confused with transiter.]
an electronic device consisting of a small block of a
semiconductor on which are placed three electrodes and that
conducts electrons moving in one direction to the opposite
direction.
If the transistor had not been invented, today’s handheld
electronic devices would not exist.
38. amplify  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 verb
to enlarge, expand or extend (a statement or other expression
of idea in words) by addition of detail or illustration or by
logical development.
The speaker used an emotional video to amplify the theme of
her keynote address.
39. juncture  This word came to English from Latin.
 noun
a joint : a seam.
Welding the two steel plates together created a raised ridge at
their juncture.
40. vacancy  This word is from Latin.
 noun
an unoccupied office, post or tenancy.
Rahul was surprised to learn there was a vacancy on the
board of directors.
41. exploits  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 verb
makes use of meanly or unjustly for one’s own advantage or
profit : takes undue advantage of.
Anyone who exploits migrant farm workers may be subjected
to fines or imprisonment.
42. 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.
rabble-rouser  This word is from English.
 noun
one who stirs up the masses of the people (as to hatred or
violence) : demagogue.
Jackson was accused of being a rabble-rouser for encouraging
his classmates to start a food fight in the cafeteria when there
weren’t enough tater tots.

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
43. barrier  This word went from French to English.
 noun
a material object or set of objects that separates, keeps apart or
demarcates.
When Cecily had to share a bed with her little sister while on
vacation, she set up a pillow barrier down the middle to avoid
any stray kicks.
44. gratingly  This word consists of a part that went from Germanic-derived
 French to English plus an English combining form.
adverb
with a harsh or irritating sound or effect.
The sound of the fingernails being scraped down the board fell
gratingly on our ears.
45. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
sheriff  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Could be confused with sharif/sherif/shereef/shareef.]
an important county officer in the United States who is usually
elected by the people of the county as the chief executive
officer of the courts of superior jurisdiction therein.
Heading for the county line at top speed, Joe tried to get out of
the jurisdiction of the sheriff who was tailing his car.
46. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
Angus  This word is from a Scottish geographical name.
 noun
[Could be confused with Anguis.]
any of a breed of black or red hornless beef cattle originating
in Scotland.
Black Angus, which originated in Scotland, is the most
common breed of beef cattle in the United States.
47. scoundrel  This word is of unknown origin.
 noun
a bold selfish person who has very low ethical standards.
The actor said that he enjoyed playing a feisty, unscrupulous
scoundrel in the movie.
48. Harlem  This word is a U.S. geographical name.
 geographical entry
section of New York City in northern Manhattan bordering on
the Harlem and East rivers; a center of African American
culture especially in the 1920s.
Originally a Dutch village, Harlem was formally organized in
1658 and named after a village in the Netherlands.

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49. pamphlet  This word is from a Latin literary name plus an English
 combining form.
noun
an unbound publication other than a periodical having fewer
than a fixed number (as 50, 80, 100) of pages.
Mr. Nelson has published a pamphlet opposing the income tax.
50. depot  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
a bus station.
Andrew took a bus to the depot and then walked the rest of the
way to school.
51. trifecta  This word consists of two originally Latin elements.
 noun
a betting pool in which the bettor must pick the first, second
and third finishers in a specified race or contest in the correct
order.
Grandmother likes to bet the trifecta on her weekly visit to the
racetrack.
52. hazmat  This word consists of a part that went from Arabic to French to
 English plus a part that went from Latin to French to English.
noun
a shipped substance (as radioactive, flammable, explosive or
poisonous substances) that would be a danger to life or to the
environment if released without necessary precautions being
taken.
The truck bore the familiar symbol that indicated it was
carrying a hazmat.
53. Antarctic  This word is from a Greek word that passed through Latin
 before becoming English.
adjective
relating to the South Pole or the region near it.
Amiyah’s stamp collection included a complete collection of
the stamps of the French Antarctic Territory.

At the end of your round, would you like to include a round of oral vocabulary questions in
your competition? Turn to page 84 to begin an intermediate 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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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
54. turbulent  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
characterized by great agitation or tumult : stormy,
tempestuous.
Faith’s stomach turned as the jetliner she was flying on went
straight through some turbulent air.
55. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
appetite  This word is from a Latin word that passed to French and then
 English.
noun
[Has homonym: apatite.]
one of the instinctive desires necessary to keep up organic life;
especially : the immediate desire to eat when food is present.
The smell of apple pie baking in the oven whetted Gevonte’s
appetite.
56. ignoble  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
displaying, motivated by or characterized by baseness or
meanness : despicable.
Someone snapped a picture of the pop quiz and posted it online
for the ignoble purpose of cheating.
57. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
vortices  This word is from Latin.
 plural noun
[Has near-homonym: vertices.]
rapidly spiraling columns of air : tornadoes.
The vortices lined up, almost as if in a column formation, as
they barreled across the corn fields of southern Nebraska.
58. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
archives  This word went from Greek to Latin to French.
 plural noun
[Could be confused with Argives.]
repositories for any documents or other materials especially of
historical value (as diaries, photographs, private
correspondence).
The National Archives in Washington, D.C., houses many
significant documents such as the United States Constitution,
the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights.
59. palindrome  This word is from Greek.
 noun
a word, verse or sentence that reads the same backward or
forward.
Ada struggled to contrive a palindrome centered around her
own name.

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60. anagrams  This word is from a Greek word that passed through Latin and
 then probably French before becoming English.
plural noun
words or phrases made by transposing the letters of other
words or phrases.
Dormitory and dirty room are anagrams.
61. cannonade  This word is from a word that went from Latin to Italian to
 French.
noun
a noisy bombardment (as of questions).
The former CEO faced a cannonade of questions from
reporters as she left the courtroom with her attorney.
62. lacrosse  This word is from Canadian French.
 noun
a game that is played on a turfed field by two teams of ten
players, each of whom uses a long-handled stick with which
the ball is caught, carried and thrown with the object being to
throw the ball into the opponents’ goal.
Curious about lacrosse, Pamela signed up for an intramural
team.
63. abundance  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
a great quantity or amount : large number : plentiful supply.
When the students were on safari in Africa, they saw an
abundance of wildlife.
64. 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.
verandas or  This word is partly from Hindi and partly from Portuguese.
verandahs  plural noun
usually roofed open galleries or porticoes attached to the
exteriors of buildings and used for sitting out of doors :
porches.
The Morgans prefer to sit outside on one of their verandas in
the fall and spring, when the weather is just right.
65. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
haughty  This word consists of a part that went from Latin to French
 before becoming English plus an English combining form.
adjective
[Has homonym: slang word hottie.]
disdainfully proud or overbearing : arrogant.
He walked about with a sense of grandeur, but she saw right
through his haughty demeanor.

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66. sojourner  This word is from a Latin-derived French word that then
 became English.
noun
one that stays as a temporary resident.
Even though he had lived there for 25 years, Russell knew he
was regarded as a sojourner by the neighbors.
67. colossal  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin and then French.
adjective
characterized by extremely great bulk, extent, force, strength,
power or effect, approaching the stupendous or incredible.
The new stadium is a colossal building seating about a
hundred thousand people.
68. Himalayan  This word is from an Asian geographical name plus an English
 combining form.
noun
any of a breed of domestic cats developed by crossing the
Persian and Siamese.
A Himalayan won “Best of Show” in the local cat competition
this winter.
69. diaphoresis  This word is from Greek.
 noun
perspiration; especially : profuse perspiration.
The patient’s fever was followed by respiratory distress and
diaphoresis.
70. calamitous  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 adjective
marked by distress, affliction or disaster.
Dean tried to forget the calamitous events of the day and get
some much-needed sleep.
71. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
kurta  This word came to English from Hindi and Urdu, which both
 took it from an originally Persian word.
noun
[Could be confused with kurti (not in Merriam-Webster
Unabridged). Has uncommon variant not in Merriam-Webster
Unabridged: khurta.]
a long, loose-fitting, collarless shirt of a style originating in
India.
Prakash wore a hand-embroidered kurta to the party.

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
72. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
gannet  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Could be confused with gamut.]
any of several large web-footed fish-eating seabirds that fly
great distances and remain at sea for long periods and breed in
large colonies chiefly on offshore islands.
The gannet is Scotland’s largest seabird.
73. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
palladium  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin.
noun
[Has near-homonym: palladian.]
something that affords effectual protection or security.
Ian thinks of his large shaggy dog as his personal palladium.
74. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
brevet  This word is from a Latin-derived French word that then
 became English.
noun
[Has near-homonym: brevit.]
an official document from a government granting a privilege,
title or dignity.
Dominic found a brevet signed by President Fillmore among
his grandfather’s papers.
75. Connemara  This word is an Irish geographical name.
 geographical entry
district of Ireland in western Galway and bordering on the
Atlantic.
Connemara is one of a few remaining strongholds of the Irish
Gaelic language in Ireland.

At the end of your round, would you like to include a round of oral vocabulary questions in
your competition? Turn to page 84 to begin an intermediate vocabulary round,
or page 88 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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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
 Words 76–300 are 2020 Words of the Champions Words.

There is no rule stating that you must proceed word-for-word from this list.
You may skip a word if you sense that the word may present a problem at your bee.

76. jumbo  This word is from an American name.

 adjective
being a very large specimen of its kind : huge.
The jumbo diamonds flashed at the awards ceremony.
77. mister  This word is from a word that passed from Latin to French to
 English.
noun
sir — used in direct address.
“Hey, mister,” Nadine asked, “would you like to buy some
cookies?”
78. ladybug  This word is formed from an originally English word plus an
 English word of unknown origin.
noun
any of the small hemispherical often brightly colored beetles
that are distributed throughout temperate and tropical regions
and that usually feed upon small insects and the eggs of larger
insects.
Mia watched the ladybug as it crawled up the back of her
sister’s shirt.
79. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
nacho  This word is from American Spanish.
 noun
[Could be confused with macho, ancho.]
a tortilla chip topped with cheese and often additional savory
toppings (such as chili peppers or refried beans).
Stevie grabbed the last nacho off the platter just as his little
brother reached for it.
80. keyhole  This word consists of two originally English elements.
 noun
a hole or aperture for receiving a key.
In the dark, Demmie could not find the keyhole.

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81. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
flute  This word went from Latin to Old Provençal to French to
 English.
noun
[Could be confused with fluke.]
an orchestral instrument consisting of a hollow cylinder with
finger holes along its length and with a lateral hole for
blowing into.
When he first picked it up, Jason could not even get the flute
to make a sound.
82. bagpipe  This word is originally English.
 noun
a musical instrument consisting of a double reed melody pipe
and one or more single reed drone pipes that are sounded by
air from a flexible bag.
To avoid disturbing her neighbors, Deirdre went to a deserted
clearing in the woods to practice the bagpipe.
83. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
bother  This word is perhaps from a word that went from Irish to Irish
 Gaelic.
verb
[Has near-homonym: father.]
to force unwelcome attention or company on : pester, disturb.
Michaela knew better than to bother her baby brother while
he was napping, but sometimes she did it anyway.
84. honeybee  This word is originally English.
 noun
any of certain social honey-producing colonial insects.
Miriam watched the honeybee travel from flower to flower.
85. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
foxes  This word is originally English.
 plural noun
[Could be confused with phloxes.]
any of various alert carnivorous mammals related to the
wolves but smaller, with shorter legs, more pointed muzzle,
large upright ears and long bushy tail.
In many cultures, foxes appear in folklore as symbols of
cunning and trickery.
86. glimmer  This word is originally English.
 noun
a small amount or degree : a faint trace.
When the doctor said he would remove her cast a week early,
Josie felt a glimmer of hope that she might play in the
championship game after all.

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87. golden  This word is originally English.
 adjective
relating to or consisting of a very malleable, ductile, yellow
metallic element that is sometimes used commercially (as in
coins or jewelry) either alone or alloyed with other metals.
Amy’s grandma gave her a golden locket for her 18th
birthday.
88. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
savvy  This word is from a word that went from Latin to Spanish.
 adjective
[Has near-homonym: saphie/saffi.]
characterized by shrewdness and practical grasp.
Rosario is a savvy shopper who never pays full price for
anything.
89. eggplant  This word consists of a part that came from Old Norse to
 English plus a part that came from Latin to English.
noun
the usually smooth edible purple, white, or occasionally
yellow or striped fruit of a perennial herb that is widely
cultivated.
Zoe always orders eggplant Parmesan when she eats at an
Italian restaurant.
90. relish  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
a savory pickled or preserved food prepared from mixed
chopped vegetables or fruits and usually served with meat.
Cameron put ketchup, onions and pickle relish on his hot dog.
91. shrimp  This word is originally English.
 noun
any of numerous relatively small decapod crustaceans having
a slender elongated body with a laterally compressed
abdomen, long legs, and a long, more or less spiny rostrum.
Milo was dismayed there was just one fried shrimp left on his
plate.
92. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
purse  Originally Greek, this word came to English from Latin.
 noun
[Has near-homonym: purrs.]
a receptacle (as a handbag, pocketbook or wallet) used to
carry money and often other small objects about with one.
Kathleen tossed her sunglasses and keys into her purse and
headed out the door.

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93. boycott  This word is from an English name.
 verb
to combine against (a person, employer, a group of persons or
a nation) in a policy of absence of relations for economic or
political reasons.
The elementary school students decided to boycott doing their
homework until pizza lunches were reinstated.
94. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
knock  This word is originally English.
 verb
[Has homonym: nock.]
to strike upon the surface of something (as a door) with a
short sharp fairly heavy blow especially so as to indicate
desire to gain admittance.
Since the doorbell was broken, Robby had to knock.
95. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
moose  This word is from Algonquian.
 noun
[Has homonym: mousse.]
a large ruminant mammal with humped shoulders, long legs
and broadly palmated antlers that inhabits forested areas of
Canada, the northern United States, Europe and Asia.
The campers hoped they might spy a moose while in the
Alaskan wilderness.
96. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
holiday  This word consists of two originally English elements.
 noun
[Could be confused with hallowday.]
a day on which one is exempt from one’s usual labor or
vocational activity.
Marshall likes to go to the beach whenever he has a holiday.
97. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
cartoon  This word was formed in Italian based on a Greek-derived
 Latin word.
noun
[Has near-homonyms: cardoon, khatun.]
a motion picture made from a series of drawings, computer
graphics or photographs of inanimate objects.
Shawnie spent the day happily binge-watching her favorite
cartoon.

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
98. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
guess  This word is probably of Scandinavian origin.
 noun
[Has near-homonym: guest.]
an opinion formed without sufficient or decisive evidence or
grounds.
Alyssa’s guess at the number of jelly beans in the jar turned
out to be correct.
99. chowder  This word came from a French word, which formed it from a
 Latin word.
noun
a soup or stew of seafood (as clams or white-fleshed sea
fishes) usually made with milk and containing salt pork or
bacon, onions and potatoes and sometimes other vegetables.
Dina hunted online for a recipe for chowder that she could
make in her slow cooker.
100. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
coffee  This word went from Arabic to Turkish to Italian before it
 came into English.
noun
[Could be confused with genus “Coffea.”]
a drink made by infusion or decoction from the roasted and
ground or pounded seeds of small tropical or subtropical
upland trees or shrubs having cherrylike fruits.
If Griff drinks coffee after dinner, he will stay awake until
dawn.
101. ginger  This word is probably from an originally Sanskrit word that
 passed through Greek into Latin before becoming English.
adjective
a rhizome that is extremely pungent and aromatic, is widely
used as a spice, and is usually prepared by drying and
grinding to a fine brownish powder.
Sarva chopped fresh ginger to add to the hot pan along with
oil, minced garlic and her secret spice blend.
102. bonfire  This word is from English.
 noun
an open-air fire in which waste paper, leaves, brush or other
rubbish is burned.
The McDaniels have a tradition on their ranch of starting a
bonfire to burn their dry leaves each fall.

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103. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
whisk  This word is probably from a Scandinavian word that came
 into English.
noun
[Could be confused with abbreviation Wisc.]
a small usually wire kitchen implement used for hand beating
of food (as eggs, cream or potatoes).
Rose used a whisk to beat the egg whites into a stiff froth.
104. widget  This word is from an English word of unknown origin.
 noun
a usually small device, contrivance or mechanical part (as a
fitting or attachment) : gadget.
The greeting card featured a small widget that played a
recorded message when the card was opened.
105. theme  Originally Greek, this word passed through Latin and French
 before becoming English.
noun
a subject or topic on which one speaks or writes.
The newspaper editor wrote a controversial column on the
theme of the economy.
106. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
dawdle  This word is of unknown origin.
 verb
[Has near-homonym: doddle.]
to spend more time than is necessary or usual in doing
something : loiter.
Because she doesn’t enjoy doing homework, Adelyn will often
dawdle over her after-school snack.
107. quack  This word is imitative in origin.
 noun
the cry of the duck or a sound in imitation of it.
As a joke, Joy’s older brother very patiently explained to her
that a duck says “meow” and a cat says “quack.”
108. cricket  This word is from an imitative French word.
 noun
any of certain leaping insects that are also noted for the
chirping notes produced by the males.
The male cricket produces sound by rubbing together parts of
the forewings.
109. squirm  This word is perhaps imitative in origin.
 verb
to twist about with contortions like an eel or a worm (as from
nervousness, embarrassment or excess of energy).
The little boy managed to sit still for five minutes before he
began to squirm in his seat.

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110. treadmill  This word is formed from an originally English word plus a
 word that went from Latin to Germanic to English.
noun
a device operated by walking on an endless belt for the
purpose of exercise.
Walking on a treadmill in his apartment was convenient, but
Sam preferred to get his exercise outside, weather permitting.
111. crayon  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
a stick of colored wax composition used for drawing and
coloring.
Charlotte selected a light blue crayon to color the sky in her
drawing.
112. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
cowlick  This word is made up of two originally English parts.
 noun
[Could be confused with colic.]
a lock or tuft of hair growing in a different direction from the
rest of the hair and usually turned up or awry.
Unless she used a lot of hair gel and coaxing, Queenie’s
cowlick caused her bangs to stick straight up.
113. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
turnip  This word is probably from a part that went from Greek to
 Latin to English plus a part that went from Latin to English.
noun
[Has near-homonym: turnup.]
either of two biennial herbs having thick edible roots eaten as
a vegetable or used for feeding stock.
In his kitchen, James separated the turnip roots from the
turnip greens so that he could use them in different dishes.
114. permafrost  This word consists of a Latin-derived part plus an originally
 English part.
noun
a permanently frozen layer of soil, subsoil or other deposit
sometimes including the bedrock and occurring at variable
depth below the earth’s surface in arctic or subarctic regions.
During the Alaska gold rush, miners had to dig through the
permafrost to reach the gold.
115. abandon  Before becoming English, this word was formed in French
 from Latin and Germanic elements.
verb
to give up by leaving, withdrawing, ceasing to inhabit, to
keep or to operate often because unable to withstand
threatening dangers or encroachments.
The approaching army forced many people to abandon their
homes.

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116. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
sundae  This word is probably from an originally English word.
 noun
[Has homonym: Sunday.]
ice cream served with a topping (such as crushed fruit, syrups,
nuts, whipped cream).
Malik topped his sundae with a dollop of whipped cream and
a smattering of sprinkles.
117. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
daughter  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Has near-homonym: dodder.]
a female offspring especially of human parents.
Alan’s oldest daughter will graduate from college this spring.
118. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
omen  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Could be confused with Oman.]
an occurrence or phenomenon believed to portend or show
the character of a future event.
Spilling the salt was an omen that pointed to a bad day ahead
for Nick.
119. pattern  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
something designed or used as a model for making things.
Kevin carefully pinned the pattern to the fabric before cutting
around it.
120. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
novelist  This word was formed in English from a word that passed
 from Latin to French to English plus an English combining
form.
noun
[Could be confused with nautilus.]
a writer of invented prose narratives of considerable length
and complexity that deal imaginatively with human
experience through a connected sequence of events usually
involving persons in a specific setting.
Ansun’s favorite novelist is John Green.

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121. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
badger  The first part of this word is probably Anglo-French, and the
 second part is an English combining form.
verb
[Has near-homonyms: batcher, spadger.]
to harass, pester or bedevil persistently especially in a manner
likely or designed to confuse, annoy or wear down.
Judge Jones has little patience with prosecutors who badger
witnesses.
122. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
alpha  Originally a Phoenician word, this word went through Greek
 and Latin before becoming English.
adjective
[Has homonym: alfa.]
socially dominant especially in a group of animals.
In social animals, the alpha animal is the individual in the
community with the highest rank.
123. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
dough  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Has homonyms: d’oh/doh, doe. Has differently pronounced
dialectical variants not listed in Merriam-Webster
Unabridged: dow, doff, duff.]
a mixture of flour and other ingredients stiff enough to knead
or roll.
Simon kneaded the dough on the counter before placing it in
a covered bowl to rise.
124. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
sword  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Has homonym and near-homonym: soared, sward.]
a weapon with a long blade for cutting or thrusting set in a
hilt usually terminating in a pommel and often having a tang
or a protective guard where the blade joins the handle.
For his knight costume, Curtis purchased a realistic-looking
sword.
125. bribery  This word went from French to English.
 noun
the act or practice of giving or taking a price, reward, gift or
favor with a view to pervert the judgment or corrupt the
conduct especially of a person in a position of trust.
When the gambler offered the athletes money to lose the
game, he was arrested and charged with bribery.

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126. penguin  This word is perhaps of Welsh origin, perhaps from a North
 Atlantic geographical name.
noun
any of various short-legged flightless aquatic birds of the
Southern Hemisphere.
The zoo gave a birthday party for its oldest penguin.
127. casino  This word was formed in Italian on the base of a Latin-
 derived word.
noun
[Different definition has variant spelling: cassino.]
a building or room for the act of playing a game and
consciously risking money or other stakes on its outcome.
On New Year’s Eve, Kate’s parents plan to go to a casino on
a riverboat that is permanently docked near their hometown.
128. bristle  This word is originally English.
 noun
a short stiff coarse hair.
Each bristle on a nettle leaf has a tip so sharp that it can
penetrate human skin.
129. developer  This word consists of an originally French part plus an
 English combining form.
noun
one that improves and subdivides land and builds and sells
residential structures thereon.
Yan spoke to a developer about building a new home in the
neighborhood.
130. bestow  This word is from English.
 verb
to give, grant or confer.
The fairies bestow gifts of beauty, grace, generosity and song
upon Sleeping Beauty at her christening.
131. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
cough  This word is from English.
 verb
[Has homonyms: coff, kaph/caph/kaf.]
to expel air from the lungs suddenly with an explosive noise
usually in a series of efforts.
Grady doesn’t like going down to the basement because the
dust always makes him cough.

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132. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
boorish  This word consists of a Dutch part plus an English combining
 form.
adjective
[Has homonym: boarish.]
characteristic of or relating to a rude, clumsy, insensitive or
boring individual : unrefined.
Embarrassed by her date’s boorish behavior, Christina ended
the evening as soon as possible.
133. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
carnival  This word came from Latin-derived Italian.
 noun
[Could be confused with carnaval (not in Merriam-Webster
Unabridged).]
a traveling enterprise consisting of such amusements as
sideshows, games of chance and rides : circus.
Joey always goes to the carnival when it comes to town.
134. kangaroo  This word is probably from an Australian name.
 noun
any of various herbivorous leaping marsupial mammals of
Australia, New Guinea and adjacent islands with long
powerful hind legs and a long thick tail used as a support and
in balancing.
A red kangaroo usually lives with a migrating group called a
“mob.”
135. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
calzone  This word came from Italian, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
[One of alternate pronunciations has homonym: plural
calzoni.]
a baked or fried turnover of pizza dough stuffed with various
fillings usually including cheese.
Jenna’s calzone was so large that it nearly covered her plate.
136. garment  This word came to English from French, which formed it
 from a Germanic and a Latin element.
noun
an article of outer clothing (as a coat or dress) usually
exclusive of accessories.
Sherlock wore a garment that resembled a cape and kept him
warm in the drizzly weather.

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137. galaxy  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin and then English.
noun
one of the billions of large systems of stars that make up the
universe including not only stars but nebulae, star clusters,
globular clusters and interstellar matter.
Our solar system is in the galaxy known as the “Milky Way.”
138. ingredient  This word came to English from Latin.
 noun
something that enters into a compound or is a component part
of any combination or mixture.
Hardly anyone believed Paul when he revealed that the
chocolate mousse had a secret ingredient: silken tofu.
139. manifesto  This word came from Italian, which formed it from Latin.
 noun
a public declaration of intentions, motives or views.
The manifesto appeared in a number of newspapers
nationwide.
140. jubilant  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
manifesting or expressing exultation or gladness.
The home team’s fans were jubilant when the batter hit the
winning home run in the bottom of the ninth inning.
141. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
gelato  This word is from a word that went from Latin to Italian.
 noun
[Could be confused with gelada.]
a soft, rich ice cream containing little or no air.
Gelato is made from whole milk, unlike American ice cream,
which is made from heavy cream and butterfat.
142. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
pellet  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
[Could be confused with pallet, palate.]
a usually small round or spherical body : a little ball.
Mallory rolled a bit of Silly Putty into a pellet and pressed it
onto a piece of newspaper to see it pick up the ink.
143. guardian  This word is from a Germanic-derived French word plus a
 French combining form.
noun
one who has or is entitled or legally appointed to the care and
management of the person or property of another (as a minor
or a person incapable of managing his own affairs).
To go on the field trip, Layla needed a permission slip signed
by her legal guardian.

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144. inclusion  This word is from Latin.
 noun
the state of being taken in as a part of a larger group, class or
principle.
The inclusion of a written essay dismayed students who were
hoping the test would be entirely multiple choice.
145. balderdash  This word is of unknown origin.
 noun
nonsense : empty talk or discourse.
The diners, realizing that the people at the next table were
eavesdropping, launched into balderdash.
146. aromatherapy  This word was formed in French from originally Greek parts.
 noun
inhalation or bodily application (as by massage) of fragrant
essential oils (as from flowers and fruits) for therapeutic
purposes.
Aromatherapy is part of Miriam’s nightly bedtime ritual.
147. cattail  This word is from an English phrase formed from a word that
 came from perhaps Hamitic-derived Latin to French plus an
English word.
noun
a tall marsh plant with long flat leaves used for making mats
and chair seats.
Jasmine eyed the mats made of cattail leaves with admiration
on her trip to the farmer’s market.
148. mangrove  The first part of this word is from a word that probably went
 from Taino to Spanish to Portuguese and the second part is
originally English.
noun
a tropical maritime tree or shrub bearing fruit that germinates
while still on the tree and having numerous prop roots that
ultimately form an impenetrable mass and play an important
role in land building.
Because of its sensitivity to cold temperatures, in the U.S. the
mangrove is only found in parts of Florida, southern
Louisiana and Texas.
149. conductor  This word is from Latin, but went through French before
 becoming English.
noun
a person that directs an orchestra, chorus or other group of
musical performers.
The humble conductor was embarrassed by the standing
ovation after the concert.
150. prejudice  This word passed from Latin to French to English.
 noun
an irrational attitude of hostility directed against an
individual, a group, a race or their supposed characteristics.
Clara is well-known in her city as a social activist who fights
injustices and racial prejudice.

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151. caravan  This word is from a word that went from Persian to Italian.
 noun
a group of vehicles proceeding or traveling together in a file.
The group will leave Los Angeles in a cross-country caravan
to Washington, where they will rally for better treatment of
immigrant workers.
152. flabbergast  This word’s origin is unknown.
 verb
to overwhelm with shock, surprise or wonder (as by
extraordinary statements or unexpected news).
Barb expected that the news of her election win would
flabbergast her parents.
153. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
arborio  This word is from an Italian geographical name.
 noun
[Could be confused with arboreal.]
a short-grain rice that has a creamy texture when cooked and
is typically used in risotto.
The chef slowly added wine and broth to the arborio to make
a simple risotto.
154. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
corgi  This word is from Welsh.
 noun
[Could be confused with corky.]
a small dog of either of two breeds of Welsh origin that has
short legs, a long back and a foxy head with upright ears.
The Pembroke Welsh corgi in the photo with Queen Elizabeth
II is one of several such dogs she has owned.
155. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
fabulist  This word was formed in French from an originally Latin
 word and a French combining form.
noun
[Could be confused with fabulous.]
a creator or writer of fables, especially those that carry a
moral lesson.
Aesop is frequently called “history’s greatest fabulist.”

At the end of your round, would you like to include a round of oral vocabulary questions in
your competition? Turn to page 88 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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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
156. Goliath  This word is from a biblical name.
 noun
giant.
The basketball player was a fast-moving Goliath of a man.
157. riviera  This word is from a Mediterranean geographical name.
 noun
a coastline much frequented as a resort area and usually
having a mild climate.
Students flocked to the Florida riviera during spring break.
158. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
pilferer  This word is from a French word.
 noun
[Could be confused with pilfer.]
one that takes articles of small value : a petty thief.
The pilferer of pencils and paper from the office supply closet
was identified on surveillance tape.
159. jamboree  This word is of unknown origin.
 noun
a large festive gathering (as of a political party or a league of
sports teams) often involving a program of variety
entertainment or exhibition performances.
Joseph’s soccer team is scheduled to play the first game at
the jamboree.
160. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
graham  This word is from an American name.
 adjective
[Has homonym: gram.]
made wholly or largely of whole wheat flour.
Regina used graham crackers to make the crust of her famous
chocolate pie.
161. firmament  This word has origins in Hebrew and Greek, but was formed
 from an originally Latin word and passed through French
before becoming English.
noun
the vault or arch of the sky : the heavens.
Carmen gazed up at the stars, which were tiny specks of
brightness in the black firmament.
162. tarmac  This word consists of an originally English element plus a
 shortened British name.
noun
a road, apron or runway made of a pavement constructed by
spraying or pouring a tar binder over courses of crushed stone
in situ and then consolidating with a power roller.
Neil’s suitcase was damaged beyond repair when it fell from
the plane’s cargo compartment to the tarmac.

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163. deodorant  This word is formed from two Latin-derived elements plus an
 English combining form.
adjective
destroying or masking offensive smells.
Penny used a deodorant carpet cleaner to get rid of the dog
smell in the apartment.
164. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
porridge  This word is from a Latin-derived French word that then
 became English.
noun
[Has differently pronounced Scottish variant parritch. Has
uncommon variants porage, porrige not in Merriam-Webster
Unabridged. Could be confused with porge.]
a soft food made by boiling grains or legumes in milk or
water until thick.
The campers were extremely hungry, and each consumed a
large bowl of porridge.
165. duopoly  The first part of this word is from Latin and the second part is
 from a word that went from Greek to Latin.
noun
a market situation in which two competing sellers hold the
controlling power of determining the amount and price of a
product or service offered to a large number of buyers.
Linden likened the American two-party political system to a
duopoly.
166. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
bonito  This word is from Spanish, which formed it from an
 originally Latin part plus a Spanish combining form.
noun
[Has similarly pronounced variant bonita. Has near-
homonym: proper name Benito.]
any of various mackerel-like fishes intermediate in size and in
other characteristics between the smaller mackerels and the
larger tunas.
The bonito, a far-ranging oceanic fish, is difficult to catch
because it is a very fast swimmer.
167. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
officiant  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Has homonym: efficient.]
a priest or minister who performs a prescribed religious
service or ceremony.
Ludmila and Rodrigo asked their priest to be the officiant for
their upcoming wedding.

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168. marooned  This word comes to English from Spanish, which formed it
 from a Latin word.
verb
abandoned on the shore on a desolate island or coast and left
to one’s fate.
The pirates marooned Jack and Elizabeth on a small desert
island.
169. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
turret  Originally Greek, this word passed from Latin to French
 before becoming English.
noun
[Could be confused with turrid.]
an ornamental tower at one of the angles of a larger structure.
The princess escaped from the turret by sliding down a rope
of knotted bed sheets.
170. marsupial  This word is formed from a Greek-derived Latin word plus an
 English combining form.
noun
any of an order of mammals having a pouch for carrying the
young and including kangaroos, wombats, bandicoots and
opossums.
Perhaps the best-known example of a marsupial is a female
kangaroo with a large joey in her pouch.
171. extinguish  The first part of this word is from an originally Latin word,
 and the second part is from English.
verb
to cause (as a fire or light) to cease burning.
During the Fourth of July festivities, it was Georgia’s
responsibility to extinguish any embers or fires after the
fireworks had been set off.
172. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
gauntlet  This word is from a French word formed from a Scandinavian
 word plus a French combining form.
noun
[Has homonym gantlet/gauntlet.]
a reinforced glove used with armor during the Middle Ages
and evolving with such armor to become in the 14th century a
covering of small minutely articulated steel plates for the
whole back of the hand, fingers and thumb.
The museum added to its medieval armor display a 14th-
century gauntlet bequeathed by Dr. Jefferson.
173. verbiage  This word came from French, which formed it from Latin-
 derived elements.
noun
manner of expressing oneself in words.
The captain taught the sergeants how to write messages and
orders in concise military verbiage.

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174. skedaddle  This word is of unknown origin.
 verb
to run away : leave hastily.
Karen has warned her friends that she will skedaddle from
the bazaar if it starts to rain.
175. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
vacuum  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Could be confused with vacuome.]
a space (as the interior of a closed vessel) partially exhausted
(as to the highest degree possible) by an air pump or by any
of various other artificial means.
Professor Benson switched on the pump to create a vacuum
in the tube through which the laser beam would travel.
176. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
calico  This word is from an Indian geographical name.
 noun
[Could be confused with calicle.]
a blotched or spotted animal.
Morgan owns four cats: three tabbies and a calico named
Patches.
177. buffoonery  This word is from a French word made up of a Latin-derived
 element and a French combining form.
noun
the practices of a clown or clownish person; especially :
coarse loutish behavior.
Mrs. Decker warned that she would tolerate no buffoonery in
her classroom.
178. fallacy  This word is from Latin.
 noun
a plausible reasoning that fails to satisfy the conditions of
valid argument or correct inference.
Though Ben’s argument may seem credible, it is pure fallacy.
179. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
piratical  This word is formed from a word that passed from Greek to
 Latin to French plus an English combining form.
adjective
[Could be confused with pyritical.]
befitting or resembling one noted for predatory practices.
Bryce’s piratical enthusiasm for Magic: The Gathering
trading cards meant that his little brother’s own collection
kept mysteriously shrinking.

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180. hurriedly  The first part of this word is probably an imitative English
 word and the second part is an English combining form.
adverb
quickly : hastily.
Mr. Martin hurriedly left the store after he received a text
alert that a severe storm was approaching.
181. infatuation  This word is from Latin.
 noun
strong and unreasoning attachment.
Tim’s parents were concerned about his infatuation with
video games.
182. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
cuckoo  This word is from an imitative English word.
 noun
[Has homonym: kuku.]
a familiar European bird that is noted for its characteristic
two-syllabled whistle and for its habit of laying its eggs in the
nests of other birds for them to hatch.
The cuckoo in the aviary sounded just like Grandmother’s
clock.
183. syllabus  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin.
noun
a compendium or summary outline of a discourse, course of
study or examination requirements.
After reading the syllabus for the seminar, Brad realized he
had made a terrible mistake by enrolling.
184. attendee  This word is from a word that went from Latin to French to
 English plus an English combining form.
noun
one who is present on a given occasion or at a given place.
Fawzi is a regular attendee of his favorite soccer team’s
home games.
185. centipede  This word is from Latin.
 noun
any of various flattened elongated arthropods having the body
divided into a number of segments each bearing one pair of
legs of which the foremost is modified into poison fangs.
The centipede is so adaptable that it is found in deserts, rain
forests and arctic tundra.

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186. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
fondant  This word is from French, which formed it from a Latin word.
 noun
[Could be confused with fondante potatoes.]
a soft creamy preparation of sugar, water and flavorings that
is used as a basis for candies or icings.
Duff carefully smoothed the fondant over the cake.
187. hermitage  This word consists of an element that went from Greek to
 Latin to French to English plus an element that went from
Latin to French to English.
noun
a secluded residence or private retreat.
Dave’s father has always dreamed of living in the city during
the week and escaping to some country hermitage on the
weekends.
188. Bohemian  This word is from a European geographical name and an
 English combining form.
noun
a follower of art, literature or similar pursuits who adopts an
individualistic, easygoing and sometimes eccentric way of
living that reflects protest against or indifference to social
conventions.
Camille fancies herself a Bohemian and spends much of her
time painting in footie pajamas.
189. gossamer  This word is originally English.
 noun
a fine filmy substance consisting of fragments or strands of
cobweb often seen floating in air in calm clear weather or
caught on grass or bushes.
The dew and gossamer had dried from the grass by
midmorning.
190. 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.
jalapeño  This word is from Mexican Spanish.
 noun
a Mexican pepper.
Nita stuffed the last jalapeño with cheese, rolled it in
breadcrumbs and dropped it in the deep fryer.
191. cohesive  This word consists of an originally Latin part plus an English
 combining form.
adjective
fitting together naturally and consistently with suitable order,
proportion and similarity of tone.
Max was pleased with the cohesive feel of the decor in his
new apartment.

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192. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
installation  Originally Latin, this word went through French before
 becoming English.
noun
[Has homonym and near-homonym: instillation, instellation.]
a work of art that usually consists of multiple components
often in mixed media and that is exhibited in a usually large
space in an arrangement specified by the artist.
There was a line around the block for the opening of the
famous artist’s new installation at the contemporary art
museum.
193. 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.
cognizant or  This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
cognisant  English.
adjective
aware : perceiving with a degree of controlled thought or
observation.
Watching television commercials can make viewers more
cognizant of fads and fashions.
194. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
insignia  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Could be confused with similarly pronounced variant
insigne.]
a distinguishing mark of authority, office or honor : an
emblem.
The insignia of a brigadier general is a single silver star.
195. rudiments  This word is from Latin.
 plural noun
fundamental skills taught or learned (as in an elementary
school).
Reading, writing and arithmetic are the rudiments of
elementary school education.
196. cemetery  Originally Greek, this word passed into Latin and then French
 before becoming English.
noun
any burial ground, typically a large one : a graveyard.
Stan got the creeps whenever he walked through the cemetery
on his way to Bruno’s house.
197. nuance  This word was formed in French from Latin-derived
 elements.
noun
a minute variation : a delicate gradation : a subtle distinction.
The music critic took notes on every nuance of the
performance.

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198. sapphire  This word is from an originally Sanskrit word that went
 through Hebrew, Greek, Latin and French before becoming
English.
noun
a precious stone of transparent rich blue corundum of great
value.
To celebrate her September birthday, Kate bought herself a
necklace with two diamonds and a single sapphire.
199. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
foosball  This word probably came from a German word which was
 based on an English word.
noun
[Could be confused with fuzz ball.]
a table game resembling soccer in which the ball is moved by
manipulating rods to which small figures of players are
attached — called also “table soccer.”
Gabe challenged Dmitri to a game of foosball at the arcade.
200. gladiatorial  This word is formed from a probably Celtic word that passed
 into Latin plus English and Latin combining forms.
adjective
of, relating to or suggestive of combatants equipped with
some means of attack and defense and pitted against another
or against a wild animal for the entertainment of the public
(as in the arena of the ancient Roman amphitheater).
Mona was amused when her brothers’ fight over the last pork
chop at dinner began to resemble gladiatorial combat.
201. disproportionate  This word was formed in English from Latin-derived
 elements.
adjective
not properly or pleasingly regulated with respect to relative
size.
Gordon thought the new mansion looked disproportionate
next to the older ranch houses in his neighborhood.
202. attributive  This word is from Latin-derived French.
 adjective
functioning as an adjective.
In the phrase “hair clip,” the word “hair” is attributive.
203. jeepney  This word is from an English word plus a part from an
 English word of unknown origin.
noun
a small Philippine passenger bus converted from a small
multipurpose motor vehicle equipped with four-wheel drive.
David found a job driving tourists to and from the airport in a
jeepney.

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204. adhesion  This word is from a Latin word that became French.
 noun
[Has obsolete variant not in Merriam-Webster Unabridged:
adhaesion.]
steady or firm attachment (as to a person, party, principle or
idea) : adherence.
To continue riding the school bus each day, Janelle had to
demonstrate adhesion to the safety rules.
205. impetus  This word is from Latin.
 noun
a driving or impelling force.
Ralph’s new girlfriend was the impetus behind his new
exercise program.
206. prenuptial  This word is formed from originally Latin elements.
 adjective
preceding marriage.
Marlo gained three pounds during the month of prenuptial
parties.
207. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
Realtor  This word is a collective mark.
 collective mark
[Could be confused with realter.]
— used for a real estate agent who is a member of the
National Association of Realtors.
Joe’s mother was named “Realtor of the Year” by the local
chamber of commerce.
208. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
fratority  This word is a blend of two English words, the first a Latin-
 derived word from French and the second a Latin-derived
English word.
noun
[Could be confused with fraternity.]
a society or club including both men and women or boys and
girls.
Eli and Kaitlyn want to start their own fratority and hold the
meetings in the tree house in their backyard.
209. olympiad  This word was formed in Latin from Greek-derived elements
 before passing into French and then English.
noun
one of the four-year intervals between Olympian games by
which time was reckoned in ancient Greece.
It is widely thought that the first olympiad began in 776 B.C.

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210. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
Brigadoon  This word is from the title of an American musical.
 noun
[Could be confused with the Scottish bridge Brig o’ Doon.]
a place that is idyllic, unaffected by time, or remote from
reality.
The sleepy village Charlie stumbled upon was something of a
Brigadoon, beautiful and peaceful and off the beaten path.
211. oculus  This word is from Latin.
 noun
an architectural part resembling or suggestive of an eye.
In the west end of Norman churches there is often an oculus.
212. dubiously  The first part of this word is from an originally Latin word,
 and the second part is an English combining form.
adverb
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged only provides an audio
pronunciation. Written pronunciation is from m-w.com.]
in a manner expressive of doubt, hesitation or suspicion.
“Are you sure the shot won’t hurt?” Nicole asked the doctor
dubiously.
213. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
eradicate  This word is from Latin.
 verb
[Has homonym that has opposite meaning: irradicate.]
to do away with : destroy completely.
By using aerial sprays, wheat farmers eradicate weeds,
diseases and insect pests from their fields.
214. dishevel  This word is from Latin-derived French.
 verb
to cause disarray in (as a person).
Marie decided to wrap a scarf over her hair so that the wind
would not dishevel it.
215. circuitous  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
winding : indirect : roundabout.
The road ascending the mountain became increasingly
circuitous.
216. syndicate  This word was formed from an originally Greek word that
 passed through Latin and into French.
noun
a loose association of racketeers in control of organized
crime.
The police have spent years trying to get evidence to convict
the head of the local crime syndicate.

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217. rialto  This word is from an Italian geographical name.
 noun
the theater district of a town.
Tracy and Eric strolled through the rialto, stopping to look at
posters for several current productions.
218. tyrannical  This word is from a word that went from Greek to Latin plus
 an English combining form.
adjective
given to oppressive, harsh, unjust or arbitrary behavior or
exercise of power.
Ron’s mother’s behavior seems tyrannical to him at times.
219. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
duress  Originally Latin, this word went through French before
 becoming English.
noun
[Has near-homonym: dress.]
stringent compulsion by threat of danger, hardship or
retribution.
Emily and Theo only clean their rooms under considerable
duress.
220. 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.
ipso facto  This phrase is from Latin.
 adverb
by the fact or act itself : as the result of the mere act or fact :
by the very nature of the case.
The prince is the oldest son and ipso facto will inherit the
crown and become king.
221. barracks  This word is originally from Catalan and went through French
 before becoming English.
plural noun
an often permanent building or set of buildings used
especially for lodging soldiers stationed at a military post.
Sebastian lived in the barracks while attending basic
training.
222. rhinestone  This word is from a western European geographical name
 plus a word that is originally English.
noun
a colorless imitation stone of high luster made of glass, paste
or gem quartz.
Tahani spent hours searching for the single rhinestone that
had fallen out of her belt buckle.

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223. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
condemn  This word came to English from Latin through French.
 verb
[Has near-homonym: contemn.]
to pronounce as ill-advised, reprehensible, wrong or evil
typically after definitive judgment and without reservation or
mitigation.
Often custom justifies an action that years later it will
condemn.
224. vicinity  This word is from French, which formed it from Latin.
 noun
a surrounding area or district : the approximate area of the
location or position of something : neighborhood.
In the vicinity of Wanda’s apartment there are four coffee
shops and three bookstores.
225. umpirage  This word is formed from a word that went from Latin to
 French to English plus an English combining form.
noun
an act or instance of deciding in the capacity of one having
authority to arbitrate and make a final decision.
Daniel Webster disputed the umpirage of any state that tried
to settle the validity of laws of Congress.
226. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
consortium  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Has near-homonym: consortion.]
an organization of persons having a common interest :
fellowship, club.
Several organizations joined the consortium that fosters
inclusion of individuals with disabilities.
227. beguile  This word was formed in English from an English element
 plus an element that went from Germanic to French to
English.
verb
to gain the notice of by the use of wiles : charm.
Students who thought they would beguile Mrs. Albert into
giving them a good grade were grossly mistaken.
228. epistolary  This word is from a word that went from Latin to French.
 adjective
written in the form of a series of letters.
Austen read four epistolary novels last summer.

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229. froufrou  This word is from an imitative French word.
 noun
abundant or excessive ornamentation (as ruffles, beading,
flowers, veiling) in women’s clothing.
While the slippers covered with froufrou were beautiful, they
were too impractical for everyday wear.
230. marionette  This word is from French, which probably formed it from a
 biblical name.
noun
a puppet moved by strings or by hand (as in a puppet show).
The performance with the marionette was the hit of the show.
231. discomfiture  This word is from Latin-derived French.
 noun
the state of being disconcerted or abashed : confusion :
embarrassment.
The bright lights added to Verne’s discomfiture as he stood
behind the lectern.
232. erstwhile  This word consists of two originally English elements.
 adjective
having been at some past time : onetime, sometime or former.
Claude is suing his erstwhile friend and business partner for
the collapse of their corporation.
233. truncate  This word is from Latin.
 verb
to abbreviate by or as if by cutting off : lop.
Ella learned how to use JavaScript to truncate a text string to
a fixed length.
234. peacenik  This word is made up of one element that went from Latin to
 French to English and another that went from Ukrainian and
Polish to Yiddish.
noun
an opponent of war; specifically : one who participates in
antiwar demonstrations.
Brenna made Grandma promise to look for the scrapbook
with pictures of her days as a peacenik in the 1970s.
235. fiduciary  This word is from Latin.
 adjective

of, having to do with or involving a confidence or trust.
A fiduciary relationship exists between a caregiver and the
person receiving care.

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236. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
feign  Originally Latin, this word went through French before
 becoming English.
verb
[Has homonyms: fain, fane. Has near-homonyms: fang, vane,
vein, vain.]
to give a sham appearance of : simulate falsely.
In an emergency, Maris will feign composure to save her
pride.
237. contemptuous  This word consists of a Latin part and an English combining
 form.
adjective
manifesting, feeling or expressing scorn or disdain.
The senator was openly contemptuous of his rival during the
debate.
238. marmoset  This word is from an originally imitative French word that
 passed into English.
noun
any of numerous soft-furred South and Central American
monkeys that have claws instead of nails on all the digits
except the big toe.
The chisel-like incisors of the marmoset are used for gouging
trees to obtain gums and saps.
239. oligarchy  This word is from Greek.
 noun
government by the few.
Over the years the tiny state’s government eroded from a
democracy to an oligarchy.
240. bellwether  This word was formed in English from English elements.
 noun
one that takes the lead or initiative : a leader.
Brooke’s firm has long been considered a bellwether in the
construction industry.
241. rhubarb  Originally formed in Latin from Greek elements, this word
 passed through French before becoming English.
noun
a plant having large leaves with thick succulent stems that are
often eaten as a sauce, in pies or in preserves.
Granddad made a tasty pie using rhubarb and strawberries
from his garden.

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242. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
audacious  This word is from Latin-derived French.
 adjective
[Could be confused with edacious.]
marked by originality and verve : untrammeled by formalistic
restraint : free of cautionary inhibitions.
Tom’s audacious birdhouse design won him a blue ribbon at
the county fair.
243. 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.
vice versa  This phrase is from Latin.
 adverb
with the relations reversed : conversely.
Patricia can translate from Spanish to English and vice versa.
244. misconstrue  This word was formed in English from an originally English
 part and a word that went from Latin to English.
verb
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged does not have full
pronunciation. Pronunciation is from m-w.com.]
to understand wrongly.
Not wanting Daniel to misconstrue her advice as criticism,
Sharna was careful in how she phrased her suggestion.
245. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
racketeer  This word is from a word that is probably imitative in origin
 plus a French-derived English combining form.
noun
[Could be confused with rocketeer.]
one who extorts money or advantages by threats of violence
or blackmail.
The Justice Department was successful in prosecuting the
racketeer for tax evasion.
246. pyrotechnics  This word was probably formed in French from originally

Greek elements.
plural noun
a display of fireworks.
The baseball team celebrated each victory with pyrotechnics.
247. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
continuum  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Could be confused with plural continua.]
an identity of substance uniting discrete parts.
The continuum of care tracks patients over time through an
array of health services.

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248. lorikeet  The first part of this word is from a word from Malay, an
 Austronesian language of continental southeastern Asia, and
the second part is from a word from Spanish or French.
noun
any of numerous small arboreal parrots that are found mostly
in Australia, New Zealand and Melanesia and that feed
largely upon the nectar of flowers.
Ginger has a pet lorikeet that rides on her shoulder.
249. dowager  This word is from a Latin-derived French word plus a French
 combining form.
noun
an elderly woman of imposing appearance or dominant
personality; often : one of the elder women of assured
position who tend to set the tone of an assembly, social group
or community.
At Downton Abbey, the dowager countess usually gets the last
scone and the last laugh.
250. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
ricotta  This word came from Italian, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
[Could be confused with regatta.]
a white unripened whey cheese of Italian origin that
resembles cottage cheese.
Sriram’s favorite Italian recipe calls for ravioli stuffed with
ricotta.
251. contrariwise  The first part of this word was originally Latin and went
 through French before becoming English, and the second part
is originally English.
adverb
oppositely : on the other hand.
Kerry wasn’t a reckless driver; contrariwise, he had a perfect
driving record, thank you very much.
252. ascension  This word passed from Latin to French to English.
 noun
the act or process of going up or upward from a lower level or
degree.
The magazine article describes Steph Curry’s rapid
ascension to the top rank of basketball players.

At the end of your round, would you like to include a round of oral vocabulary questions in
your competition? Turn to page 88 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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253. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
monocle  Formed in Latin from a Greek part and Latin part, this word
 passed into French before becoming English.
noun
[Has homonyms: monacal, monachal.]
an eyeglass for one eye.
The villain wore a tuxedo, a top hat and a monocle.
254. ebullience  This word is from Latin.
 noun

high spirits : enthusiasm, exuberance.
Molly loved the ebullience with which her puppy greeted her
every time she came home.
255. tapioca  This word is from an originally Tupi word that came to
 English from Portuguese and Spanish.
noun
a preparation of cassava starch processed into granular, flake,
pellet or flour form and used as a thickening agent in liquid
foods, as pudding, soups or juicy pies.
Sam’s recipe for blueberry pie calls for two tablespoons of
quick-cooking tapioca.
256. 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.
en masse  This phrase is from French.
 adverb
in a body or group.
When the last bell rang students rushed en masse to their
lockers.
257. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
iridescent  This word is formed from a part that passed from Greek to
 Latin plus a Latin-derived English combining form.
adjective
[Has near-homonym: iridescence.]
showing colors like those of the rainbow especially in shifting
patterns of hues and shades that vary with a change of light or
point of view.
Louis C. Tiffany developed a famous type of iridescent glass.
258. tupelo  This word is from Creek, a Native American language.
 noun
a tree of a small genus of American and Asiatic trees having
flowers with overlapping petals and a single or two-cleft
style.
Five species of tupelo are native to eastern North America.

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259. quadriceps  This word is formed from originally Latin elements.
 noun
the great extensor muscle of the front of the thigh divided
above into four parts which unite in a single tendon.
The soccer player was taken out of the game when he strained
his right quadriceps.
260. tableau  This word is from French, which formed it from a Latin word.
 noun
[Plural form can be pronounced identically.]
a static depiction usually presented on a stage with
participants in appropriate costume.
The second act of the play ended with a tableau featuring the
cast gathered around a kitchen table.
261. millivolt  The first part of this word went from Latin to French, and the
 second part is from an Italian name.
noun
one thousandth of a volt.
Monique needed a conversion table to convert Celsius to
millivolt and back again.
262. thwartwise  The first part of this word is from an originally Old Norse
 word that then passed into English, and the second part is
originally English.
adverb
[Pronunciation is from m-w.com.]
in a transverse manner : crosswise.
During the ice storm, a huge tree fell thwartwise across the
path to the lake.
263. quorum  This word came to English from Latin.
 noun
the number of the members of an organized body of persons
(as a legislature) that when duly assembled is legally
competent to transact business in the absence of the other
members.
There were not enough members present at the school board
meeting to constitute a quorum, so no voting took place.
264. irrevocable  This word came to English from Latin.
 adjective

incapable of being recalled or taken back : unalterable.
The king pronounced an irrevocable sentence of exile on the
traitorous knight.
265. detritus  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
a product of disintegration or wearing away : fragment or
fragmentary material.
The aerial photo of Don’s ranch shows a fan of detritus at the
mouth of the gulch.

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266. jambalaya  This word is from a word that went from Provençal to
 Louisiana French.
noun
rice cooked with ham, sausage, chicken, shrimp, or oysters
and usually tomato and seasoned with herbs.
No trip to New Orleans would be complete without sampling
a bowl of spicy jambalaya.
267. turmeric  This word comes from French, which formed it from Latin
 elements.
noun
[Has similarly pronounced variant tumeric.]
the cleaned, boiled, sun-dried and usually pulverized rhizome
of an East Indian perennial herb used as a coloring agent or
condiment.
Turmeric is used in preparing many savory dishes in South
and Southeast Asian cuisine.
268. irascible  This word came from French, which took it from Latin.
 adjective
marked by hot temper and resentful anger.
After breaking his leg, Lennie became so irascible that his
friends stopped visiting him.
269. rutabaga  This word is from Swedish, which formed it from Old Norse.
 noun
a turnip commonly with a very large yellowish root that is
used as food both for stock and for human beings.
Barbara prepared a side dish of rutabaga for Thanksgiving
dinner, much to the delight of most of her family.
270. sommelier  This word is from a word that went from Latin to Provençal
 to French.
noun
a waiter in a restaurant who has charge of wines and their
service.
The young sommelier is working to improve her knowledge of
northern Italian wines.
271. Yeatsian  This word is from an Irish name plus an English combining
 form.
adjective
of or relating to William Butler Yeats or his poetic style or
influence.
The young poet published a series of Yeatsian poems
expressing the romance of history and nature.
272. pseudonymous  This word is from Greek.
 adjective
bearing or using a false or fictitious name.
The pseudonymous author of The Cat in the Hat and Green
Eggs and Ham is really named Theodor Geisel.

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273. fanfaronade  This word is from an originally Spanish word that passed into
 French.
noun
empty boasting : ostentatious or gaudy display.
Mr. Wilson’s fanfaronade impressed no one.
274. pruritus  This word is from Latin.
 noun
localized or generalized itching due to irritation of sensory
nerve endings from organic or psychogenic causes.
Alice rubbed an ointment on her arm to relieve her pruritus.
275. clematis  This word is from a Greek word that passed into Latin.
 noun
a plant of a genus of opposite-leaved slightly woody vines or
upright herbs having elongate plumose styles.
The clematis is cultivated in North America for its attractive
flowers.
276. damson  This word is from a Syrian geographical name that went
 through Latin to English.
noun
the fruit of a rather small compact plum that has small dark
purple fruits and is native to Asia Minor but now cultivated
throughout much of the world.
Becky added some damson to her fruit salad for a little exotic
flair.
277. dactylic  This word is from a word that went from Greek to Latin to
 English.
adjective
of or consisting of a metrical foot of three syllables, the first
stressed and the last two unstressed, or, in classical prosody,
the first long and the last two short.
Homer’s two epics are written in dactylic hexameter.
278. ecclesiology  This word consists of originally Greek elements.
 noun
the study of the doctrine of the church.
The ordination of women has been a controversial topic in
ecclesiology.
279. tarpaulin  This word was formed from an originally English part plus a
 part that went from Greek to Latin to English.
noun
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged has only audio pronunciation.
Written pronunciations are from m-w.com.]
a piece or sheet of waterproofed canvas or other waterproof
material used for covering or protecting goods, vehicles,
athletic fields or other exposed objects.
When rain began during the second inning of the baseball
game, the ground crew rolled out the tarpaulin to protect the
field.

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280. quatrefoil  This word was formed in English from a Latin-derived
 French element plus a part that went from Latin to French to
English.
noun
a conventionalized representation of a flower with four petals
or of a leaf with four leaflets.
The Gothic window featured a quatrefoil at the top of its
arch.
281. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
meringue  This word is from French.
 noun
[Has near-homonyms: marang, méringue.]
a mixture of beaten egg whites and powdered sugar baked at
low temperature and used as a topping (as on pies or
puddings).
Thelma scraped the meringue off her pie and ate it first.
282. galapago  This word is from Spanish.
 noun
one of the very large land tortoises of an island group west of
Ecuador in the Pacific.
The giant galapago at the San Diego Zoo weighed around
500 pounds.
283. jicama  This word went from Nahuatl to Spanish.
 noun
a tall-climbing Mexican vine with showy flowers and a sweet
watery root that is sometimes eaten raw or cooked.
Suleika combined jicama, carrot, peppers and cabbage into a
delicious slaw.
284. danseur  This word is from French, which perhaps borrowed it from
 Latin.
noun
a male ballet dancer.
The director chose a tall, graceful danseur for the part of
Siegfried in Swan Lake.
285. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
roux  This word is from Latin-derived French.
 noun
[Has homonyms: roo, rue.]
a mixture of flour and fat cooked sometimes until the flour
browns and used to thicken soups and sauces.
After deglazing the pan with white wine, Graham created a
roux of flour and butter.

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286. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
tamari  This word is from Japanese.
 noun
[Could be confused with temari, which is not in Merriam-
Webster Unabridged.]
a high-quality aged soy sauce prepared with little or no added
wheat.
Nadia sautéed the asparagus with garlic, black pepper and
tamari.
287. ranunculus  This word is from Latin.
 noun
any plant of a large and widely distributed genus of herbs that
have simple or variously lobed leaves and mostly yellow
flowers.
Erin planted a ranunculus in a pot beside the kitchen door.
288. beaumontage  This word is of unknown origin.
 noun
a composition used by artisans to fill and conceal holes or
cracks in wood or metal.
Fatima asked the conservator to replace all the old
beaumontage in the bronze statuette.
289. embouchure  This word came from French, which formed it from Latin-
 derived elements.
noun
the position and use of the lips in producing a musical tone on
a wind instrument.
Kirsten’s clarinet playing greatly improved after she
perfected her embouchure.
290. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
sepulchral  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
[Could be confused with sepulcher/sepulchre.]
having a funereal quality.
Dusk and a vase of gardenias gave the parlor a sepulchral
air.
291. extravasate  This word is made up of Latin elements plus an English
 combining form.
verb
to pour out or erupt.
When heat and pressure build to a critical point within a
volcano, sparks and molten lava extravasate into the air.

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292. rubefacient  This word is from Latin.
 noun
a substance for external application that produces redness of
the skin.
Isopropyl alcohol is a well-known rubefacient found in many
medicine cabinets.
293. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
escritoire  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
[Could be confused with variant scrutoire.]
a piece of furniture resembling a bureau and providing a
writing surface or desk area behind a hinged front that drops
down.
Perry bought an 18th-century escritoire at the auction house.
294. vermicelli  This word came from Italian, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
pasta made in long thin solid strings smaller in diameter than
spaghetti.
The restaurant served its Cincinnati-style chili over
vermicelli.
295. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
wickiup  This word is from Sac, Fox and Kickapoo, which are North
 American dialects.
noun
[Could be confused with wickup.]
a hut used by nomadic American Indians of the arid regions
of the western and southwestern United States that is typically
elliptical in form and has a rough frame covered with reed
mats, grass or brushwood.
As they constructed the wickiup, the reenactors were careful
to leave a hole in the top for campfire smoke to escape.
296. 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.
imbroglio or  Originally Latin, this word passed through French and Italian
embroglio  before becoming English.
noun
[Alternate spelling can be pronounced with em at start of
word.]
an intricate or complicated situation.
A veteran ambassador was sent in to navigate the imbroglio
of the international treaty negotiation.

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297. rococo  This word is from Latin-derived French.
 adjective
excessively ornate or intricate.
The rococo decor of Griselda’s new house attracts sightseers
who want to take pictures.
298. wakame  This word is from Japanese.
 noun
an edible brown seaweed native to Asia.
Most wakame sold commercially in Japan is cultivated on
seaweed farms.
299. ichthyology  This word is formed from Greek parts.
 noun
a branch of zoology that deals with fishes.
Mr. Pout didn’t need a degree in ichthyology to see that he
had caught a dead branch.
300. 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.
Reykjavík  This word is an Icelandic geographical name.
 geographical entry
a city, port on the Atlantic and capital of Iceland.
Reykjavík is the world’s northernmost capital city of a
sovereign state.

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 Words 301–400 are selected from Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

There is no rule stating that you must proceed word-for-word from this list.
You may skip a word if you sense that the word may present a problem at your bee.

Pronouncer, please read the following to your spellers:

“Spellers, we have reached the portion of the competition where we are moving into a different section of the list. The
words leading up to now were studied. The source for the remaining rounds will be Merriam-Webster Unabridged.
Although the next section of words might sound less difficult, you have not had the opportunity to study this list of words
prior to today’s competition.”

301. sweater  This word is originally English.

 noun
a knitted or sometimes crocheted elastic jacket or pullover
made in various styles and of various materials and usually
having ribbing around the neck, cuffs and lower edge.
Ginny proudly wore the sweater that her mother knitted her
for Christmas.
302. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
dental  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
[Has homonym: dentil/dentel.]
of or relating to the teeth or the art or profession of treating
diseases of the teeth and associated tissues.
Becca is still bragging that her dental exam for once
revealed no cavities.
303. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
scald  Originally Latin, this word went through French before
 becoming English.
verb
[Has homonym: skald/scald.]
to bring (a liquid) to a temperature just below the boiling
point.
People who scald the milk first when making hot cocoa
usually end up with a perfect cup.
304. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
beetle  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Has homonym: betel.]
any of various insects resembling those in the order
Coleoptera.
Both a cockroach and a ladybug may be called a “beetle.”

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305. magpie  This word is from an English name plus a part that went
 from Latin to French to English.
noun
any of numerous birds that are closely related to the jays but
have a long graduated tail and usually black-and-white
plumage.
The magpie was so big and screeched so loudly that the cat
scurried under the porch.
306. haven  This word is originally English.
 noun
a place of safety : shelter, asylum.
Rick enjoyed the library as a quiet haven away from the
noise of the classroom.
307. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
fizzled  This word is probably from an alteration of an English word
 plus an English combining form.
verb
[Could be confused with fissled, fistled.]
failed or petered out especially after a promising start.
Karen thought the big present under the tree might be the
bike she asked for, but her hopes fizzled when she saw that it
was actually for her dog, Petunia.
308. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
tangy  The first part of this word is from a Scandinavian word that
 came into English, and the second part is an English
combining form.
adjective
[Has homonym: tangi.]
having or suggestive of a sharp distinctive flavor that lingers
on the tongue.
Terence puckered his lips in reaction to the bite of tangy
frozen yogurt.
309. saltine  This word is originally English.
 noun
a thin crisp cracker sprinkled with salt.
Symphony placed a slice of cheese on the saltine and took a
bite.
310. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
plural  This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
 English.
adjective
[Has homonyms: plurel, pleural.]
belonging to a class of grammatical forms used to denote
more than one.
“Geese” is the plural form of the word “goose.”

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311. reclining  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
bending or curving gradually back from the perpendicular.
The reclining figure in the painting bore a resemblance to
Elmer Fudd.
312. worthwhile  This word consists of two originally English parts.
 adjective
of sufficient value to repay the effort.
Volunteering is a worthwhile and much-appreciated activity.
313. elsewhere  This word is originally English.
 adverb
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged has audio pronunciation only.
Written pronunciation is from m-w.com.]
in or to some or any other place.
Because the service was bad at the restaurant, Loubna and
her mother went elsewhere for dinner.
314. ability  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
physical, mental or legal power to perform : skill.
The performer at the Renaissance Festival dazzled the
audience with her ability to balance on a stack of seven
chairs while juggling lit torches.
315. eventual  This word is made up of an originally Latin part plus an
 English combining form.
adjective
taking place, arising or becoming something at an
unspecified later time : ultimately resulting.
The eventual champion of the spelling bee paved the way for
her victory with hours and hours of hard work.
316. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
vial  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Has homonym: vile.]
a small vessel for liquids.
Tamika keeps a vial of fragrant essential oil at her desk.
317. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
gala  This word is originally French but passed through Italian
 before becoming English.
adjective
[Has homonym: galla/Galla.]
belonging to, deserving or attended by festivities.
The king declared that there would be parades through every
city in the land and a gala carnival of three days’ duration.

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318. impunity  This word is from Latin.
 noun
exemption or freedom from punishment, harm or loss.
Mr. Starks allowed anglers to trespass on his land with
impunity.
319. permit  The first part of this word is from a Spanish word, and the
 second part is an originally English word.
verb
to consent to expressly or formally.
Talia’s mom does not permit her to stay out past eight on
school nights.
320. rugby  This word is from an English name.
 noun
an amateur football game which is played with an oval ball
by teams of 15 players each and in which kicking, dribbling,
lateral passing, tackling and the scrum are featured.
Trevor’s favorite sport to watch is rugby, but he’s never
actually played it.
321. confirm  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 verb
to make valid by formal assent.
The office of the President of the United States presents
choices for members of the Cabinet for the Senate to
confirm.
322. fortress  Originally Latin, this word went through French before
 becoming English.
noun
a fortified place : a stronghold.
The soldiers began to feel safe once they were deep within
the fortress.
323. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
derive  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 verb
[Could be confused with deride.]
to take or receive especially from a source.
Claudia was surprised to learn that both rivers that flow
through her town derive from the same mountain stream.
324. curable  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
capable of being remedied.
Jenna’s disease, though rare, is curable and she will be
healthy soon.

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325. falsehood  This word consists of a part that went from Latin to Anglo-
 French to English plus an originally English part.
noun
an untrue assertion especially when intentional : a lie.
Igor was fired when his manager discovered the falsehood
on his résumé.
326. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
sentence  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
[Could be confused with sentience.]
a grammatically self-contained unit that in writing usually
begins with a capital letter and concludes with appropriate
end punctuation.
Jasper’s assignment was to write a sentence for each
spelling word on his list.
327. informative  This word is from a word that went from Latin to French to
 English plus an English combining form.
adjective
imparting knowledge : instructive.
Bryant was impressed by how informative the lecture was.
328. account  This word is made up of originally Latin parts that went
 through French to English.
noun
an arrangement in which a person uses the Internet or email
services of a particular company.
Rich had to set up an email account when he started his new
job.
329. departure  This word went from Latin to French to English.
 noun
a setting out (as on a journey or a course of action or
thought).
It was only July, and Emmy thought that her departure for
college could not come fast enough.
330. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
hobbit  This word is from a fictional name.
 noun
[Has near-homonym: hoppet.]
a member of a fictitious peaceful and genial race of small,
humanlike creatures that dwell underground in the stories of
J.R.R. Tolkien.
Quinn recently explained to his mother that he was fairly
sure he was a hobbit, which meant that effective immediately
he would be partaking in seven meals a day instead of three.

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331. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
moonlet  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Has near-homonym: moonlit.]
a small natural or artificial satellite of Earth or of another
celestial body.
Each particle in the rings of Saturn is a moonlet.
332. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
soothe  This word is originally English.
 verb
[Has near-homonym: sooth.]
to assuage or relieve as if by softening.
Cough drops, gargling salt water and drinking plenty of
fluids are three ways to help soothe a sore throat.
333. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
edition  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
[Has near-homonym: addition.]
the form in which a literary work is published.
Milo bought a copy of the first edition of Tom Sawyer for his
father.
334. guileful  This word is from an originally Germanic word that became
 French before becoming English.
adjective
characterized by cunning, deceit or treachery.
His classmates thought Jack was guileful in paying $15 for a
$1,200 baseball card.
335. adjourn  This word is from a word that went from Latin to English.
 verb
to suspend a session or meeting until another time or
indefinitely.
It was after 10 o’clock when the committee chairman
announced that he would adjourn the meeting until next
week.
336. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
thesis  This word went from Greek to Latin.
 noun
[Could be confused with plural theses.]
a claim put forward : statement, proposition.
Brianna wrote an article for the school newspaper in support
of her thesis that more healthy options should be offered in
the cafeteria.

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337. supersonic  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
moving or capable of moving at speeds from one to five
times the speed of sound in air.
Myrna says that when she grows up, she wants to fly
supersonic aircraft.
338. digit  This word is from Latin.
 noun
one of the divisions in which the limbs of amphibians and all
higher vertebrates terminate numbering typically five on
each limb but often reduced : a finger or toe.
Greta pointed to each of her digits as she counted to 20 and
then to each digit on her dolls to count higher.
339. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
flamingo  This word is from Portuguese, which took it from Spanish,
 which probably took it from Provençal, which formed it from
originally Latin and Germanic elements.
noun
[Has near-homonym: flamenco.]
any of several aquatic birds that have remarkably long legs
and neck, webbed feet, and usually rosy-white plumage.
Tom and his buddies placed a giant plastic pink flamingo on
the roof of the school.
340. television  The first part of this word is originally Greek, and the second
 part is originally Latin.
noun
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged has only audio pronunciation.
Written pronunciation is from m-w.com.]
a medium of communication whereby images and sounds are
transmitted.
Due to the quality of programming, many critics have argued
that we are currently in the “Golden Age” of television.
341. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
radius  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Has homonym: radious.]
a line segment extending from the center of a circle or sphere
to the curve or surface.
The diameter of a circle is twice as long as the radius.

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342. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
candor  This word is from Latin.
 noun
[Has near-homonym: canter.]
unreserved, honest or sincere expression : frankness.
Kim’s candor in dealing with difficult issues won over her
employees.
343. mediate  This word is from Latin.
 verb
to bring about by intervention between conflicting parties.
Hopes are high that the envoys will mediate a settlement
between the two factions.
344. pagan  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
of, relating to or having the characteristics of followers of a
polytheistic religion (as in ancient Rome).
New Age spirituality has given rise to a number of organized
pagan groups.
345. foolhardiness  This word is from a French word that then became English.
 noun
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged has only audio pronunciation.
Written pronunciation is from m-w.com.]
the quality or state of being daring but lacking judgment.
When Janet wanted to swim across the river, her friends
pointed out her foolhardiness.
346. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
ogre  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
[Could be confused with augur, ocher.]
a hideous giant represented in fairy tales and folklore as
feeding on human beings : a monster.
Jason wrote a tale about an ogre who lived under a bridge
and feasted on every 10th person who crossed.
347. Say to the speller “This word has a homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and definition.
Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
column  This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
 English.
noun
[Has homonym: collum.]
one of a building’s vertical supporting structures.
A column supporting the balcony showed signs of termite
infestation.

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348. Nordic  This word came to English from French, which formed it
 from an originally English word and an originally Latin part.
adjective
of or relating to the Germanic peoples of northern Europe.
The Nordic languages, especially Old Norse, borrowed
important words from Anglo-Saxon.
349. economics  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin.
plural noun
a social science that studies the production, distribution and
consumption of commodities.
Melissa signed up for economics in hopes that she would
learn more about what causes a recession.
350. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
aggressive  The first part of this word is from an originally Latin word,
 and the second part is an English combining form.
adjective
[Could be confused with egressive.]
marked by combative readiness or bold determination.
Tired of being tailgated by the aggressive driver, Mindy
pulled over to let him pass.
351. irregular  This word went from Latin to French before becoming
 English.
adjective
failing to accord with what is usual, proper, accepted or right.
The cardiologist’s evaluation failed to explain Sara’s
irregular heartbeat.
352. chieftain  This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
 English.
noun
the leader of a group of people.
After a decisive battle, the Gallic chieftain surrendered to
Caesar.
353. watercress  This word is originally English.
 noun
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged has audio pronunciation only.
Written pronunciations are from m-w.com.]
a white-flowered plant growing in water with leaves that are
used in salads.
Jesse added some watercress and carrots to the tossed salad.
354. barbaric  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin and then English.
adjective
of, relating to or characteristic of individuals who lack
culture or refinement.
Harold was embarrassed by his little brother’s barbaric
table manners.
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355. serfdom  The first part of the word is from Latin-derived French and
 the second part is originally English.
noun
the quality, state or fact of being a person belonging to the
lower class especially in different feudal systems, bound to
the soil and separable from the lord’s land by manumission
only.
Mom quickly corrected Elliot, explaining that having to do
his chores was not, in fact, tantamount to serfdom.
356. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
revelry  This word consists of a part that went from Latin to French
 to English plus an English combining form.
noun
[Has near-homonym: reveille.]
boisterous merrymaking.
The revelry at campaign headquarters began after the
arrival of the winning candidate.
357. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
voracious  The first part of this word is from Latin and the second part
 is an English combining form.
adjective
[Could be confused with feracious.]
excessively eager : avid, insatiable.
Chloe was a voracious reader who visited her local library
nearly every day in the summer.
358. marinara  This word is from Italian.
 adjective
made with tomatoes, onion, garlic and spices.
Taylor served fresh linguine with homemade marinara sauce
to his grateful dinner guests.
359. profiteer  This word consists of a part that went from Latin to French
 to English plus an English combining form.
noun
one who makes what is considered an unreasonable gain
especially on the sale of essential goods during times of
emergency.
When the price of bottled water skyrocketed after the
hurricane, many accused the grocer of being a profiteer.
360. reputable  This word is from two originally Latin elements.
 adjective
enjoying the state of being widely and favorably known,
spoken of or esteemed.
Kunal wanted to find a reputable lawyer to handle his claim.

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361. abdomen  This word is from an originally Latin word that then became
 French.
noun
the part of the body, excepting the back, between the thorax
and the pelvis : the belly.
Clara’s workout included exercises to strengthen the muscles
of her abdomen.
362. compulsory  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
demanded, directed or designated by authority.
Attending an orientation weekend is compulsory for all new
students at the boarding school.
363. 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.
papaya or  This word is from Spanish, which took it from a Native
papaia  American language.
noun
the large oblong yellow fruit of a tree native to tropical
America that has a pulpy flesh and thick rind and is eaten
raw, boiled, pickled or preserved.
Christopher Columbus reportedly called the papaya the
“Fruit of the Angels.”
364. tantamount  This word is from a Latin word that became French and then
 Anglo-French before becoming English.
adjective
equivalent in value, significance or effect.
Because of the country’s inflation rate, Jamie’s meager raise
was tantamount to a pay reduction.
365. obnoxious  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
odiously or disgustingly objectionable : highly offensive.
Tim’s behavior at the birthday party was so obnoxious that
no one wanted to associate with him.
366. contagion  This word is from Latin.
 noun
the process by which disease is transmitted from one person
to another by direct or indirect means.
Frequent hand washing has been found to be effective in
disrupting the contagion of the common cold.
367. utterance  This word is from a French word that then became English.
 noun
something that is spoken.
Smoke and clamor accompanied every utterance of the
Great Oz.

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368. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
netizen  This word is a blend of an English word and an Anglo-
 French word.
noun
[Could be confused with medicine.]
an active participant in the online community.
An outspoken netizen, Kelly never went more than 20
minutes without updating her Facebook status.
369. tablature  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
an early instrumental musical notation indicating by letters
and other signs the string, fret, key or finger to be used
instead of the tone to be sounded.
David, who could not read tablature, had to convert the
finger chart to staff notation.
370. memoir  This word came from French, which formed it from a Latin
 word.
noun
[Merriam-Webster Unabridged provides only an audio
pronunciation. Written pronunciation is from m-w.com.]
a history or narrative composed from or stressing personal
experience and acquaintance with the events, scenes or
persons described.
In his memoir, the general related many details of the
decisive battle.
371. haggis  This word is originally English.
 noun
a pudding especially popular in Scotland made of the heart,
liver, and lungs of a sheep or a calf minced with suet, onions,
oatmeal, and seasonings and boiled in the stomach of the
animal.
Alexandra is eager to try haggis when she visits Scotland
next summer.
372. luminaria  This word is from Latin.
 noun
a traditional Mexican Christmas lantern consisting of a
brown paper bag with a lighted candle inside; also : a similar
lantern of various colors that is displayed with others.
Mateo helped his mother put a rock in each luminaria to
keep it in place.
373. arthritis  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin before becoming English.
noun
inflammation of one or more joints due to infectious,
metabolic or constitutional causes.
Theo’s arthritis keeps him from playing tennis.

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374. transmogrify  This word is of unknown origin.
 verb
to change or alter in form, appearance or structure often with
grotesque or humorous effect.
Some characters in the sci-fi novel transmogrify into
zombies.
375. formicide  This word is made up of a Latin part and an English
 combining form that went from Latin to French to English.
noun
a substance used for destroying ants.
Upon noticing the hill of red ants in the backyard, Melissa
went to the hardware store to purchase a formicide.
376. mancala  This word is from Arabic.
 noun
any of various games from Africa and southern Asia that
involve competition between two players in the distribution
of pieces into rows of holes or pockets in a board.
It is thought that there may be over 200 versions of mancala
played throughout the world.
377. glosseme  This word is made up of a Greek-derived Latin element plus
 a Greek-derived element.
noun
the smallest unit (as a word, a stem, a grammatical element,
an intonation or an order of words) that signals a meaning in
a language.
Theoretically, a glosseme is to language as an atom is to
matter.
378. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
cachinnate  This word is from Latin.
 verb
[Could be confused with catkinate.]
to laugh usually loudly or convulsively.
Some funny movies make people cachinnate until they cry.
379. echinacea  This word is from Greek.
 noun
the dried rhizome and roots of either of two herbs formerly
used in the treatment of ulcers and boils.
Some people take echinacea to prevent colds and flu.
380. ganglion  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin.
noun
a mass of nerve tissue containing nerve cells.
Each ganglion controls certain activities and is more or less
independent of the others.

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381. 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.
katabasis or  This word is from Greek.
catabasis  noun
a going or marching down or back : retreat; especially : a
military retreat.
The katabasis of the battalion was inevitable after severe
losses.
382. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
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.
fenugreek or  Originally Latin, this word passed to English from French.
foenugreek  noun
[Could be confused with similarly pronounced variant
foenngreek.]
a leguminous annual Asiatic herb with aromatic seeds used
in making curry, imitation vanilla flavoring and some
veterinary medicines.
Leonard always adds fenugreek leaves to his curry.
383. nene  This word is from a Hawaiian word.
 noun
a nearly extinct goose of the Hawaiian islands that inhabits
waterless uplands and feeds on berries and vegetation.
The toes of the nene, the state bird of Hawaii, are longer
than those of other geese and are probably an adaptation for
climbing on rocky lava flows.
384. legerdemain  This word is from a French word.
 noun
the practice of magic or trickery usually involving adroitness
and cleverness in accomplishing a deception.
The performer’s legerdemain included making a coworker
disappear from an enclosure.
385. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
rhodium  This word is from an originally Greek word that passed into
 Latin.
noun
[Has near-homonym: Rhodian.]
a bright white hard ductile metallic element that is used
chiefly in alloys with platinum and in plating for reflectors,
electrical contacts or jewelry.
Rhodium is among the rarest and most valuable precious
metals and is used to plate white gold and platinum to give it
a reflective, white surface.

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386. lachrymose  This word is from Latin.
 adjective
fit to bring tears : dismal or melancholy.
The lachrymose play ruined Samantha’s weekend.
387. terrigenous  This word is from a Latin word plus a Latin-derived English
 combining form.
adjective
formed by the erosive action of rivers, tides and currents —
used of an ocean bottom.
At the brink of the continental shelf, terrigenous deposits
form and are eventually swept away.
388. zoanthropy  This word is made up of originally Greek parts.
 noun
a mental illness in which a person believes himself or herself
changed into an animal and acts like one.
The psychiatrist sought an effective treatment for his
patient’s persistent zoanthropy.
389. pleonexia  This word is from Greek.
 noun
avarice or covetousness.
The holy books of various religions warn uniformly against
pleonexia.
390. billiken  This word is probably formed from a name plus an English
 combining form.
noun
a squat smiling comic figure used as a mascot.
The campus of Saint Louis University has a statue of its
mascot, the billiken.
391. Say to the speller “This word could be confused with a similar word.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of
speech and definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
douceur  This word is from Latin-derived French.
 noun
[Could be confused with doozer.]
a conciliatory gift : gratuity, present.
Mr. Wilson bought his neighbors a douceur in apology after
his Dalmatian wreaked havoc upon their newly planted
hydrangea bushes.
392. Zoilus  This word is from a Greek name.
 noun
a bitter and usually enviously carping critic : one given to
unjust quibbling and faultfinding.
The chef dismissed the food critic’s review as the ravings of
a Zoilus who only wished he could be a chef himself.

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393. acesodyne  This word is from Greek.
 adjective
mitigating or relieving pain.
The patient was administered an acesodyne drug to relieve
her back pain.
394. lebhaft  This word is from an originally German word.
 adjective
lively — used as a direction in music.
Ulrich intended his second cantata to be lebhaft throughout.
395. Say to the speller “This word has a near-homonym.” Next, say the word. Then, provide the word’s part of speech and
definition. Finally, answer speller’s questions, if any, about the word.
vanadic  This word is from the name of an Old Norse goddess plus an
 English combining form.
adjective
[Has near-homonym: venatic.]
of, relating to or containing vanadium — used especially of
compounds in which this element has a relatively higher
valence than in vanadous compounds.
Vanadic oxide is a yellowish red crystalline compound used
in manufacturing glass.
396. quebrada  This word is from Spanish.
 noun
a ravine; especially : one that is normally dry or nearly dry
but is filled by a torrent during a rain.
The quebrada serves as a natural drain for mountain water.
397. Isthmian  This word is from Greek.
 adjective
of or relating to the Isthmus of Corinth or the games
anciently held there.
Pindar’s victory odes celebrate the victors in Olympic,
Nemean, Pythian and Isthmian games.
398. macropodid  This word is made up of Greek-derived Latin elements.
 adjective
of or relating to a family of marsupial mammals comprising
the kangaroos, wallabies and rat kangaroos that have long
hind limbs and weakly developed forelimbs.
Macropodid mammals subsist mostly on foliage of one kind
or another.
399. hypoxemia  This word is from Greek.
 noun
deficient oxygenation of the blood.
At high altitudes many people experience hypoxemia.

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400. japonaiserie  This word is from a French word.
 noun
a style of art reflecting Japanese qualities or motifs.
The restaurant’s ambience was enhanced by the use of
japonaiserie.

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 Numerical Index of Spelling Words

1. shake 58. archives 115. abandon 173. verbiage 230. marionette

2. proof 59. palindrome 116. sundae 174. skedaddle 231. discomfiture
3. stark 60. anagrams 117. daughter 175. vacuum 232. bandicoot
4. burlap 61. cannonade 118. omen 176. calico 233. truncate
5. secret 62. lacrosse 119. pattern 177. buffoonery 234. peacenik
6. grown-ups 63. abundance 120. novelist 178. fallacy 235. fiduciary
7. special 64. verandas or 121. badger 179. piratical 236. feign
8. honest verandahs 122. alpha 180. hurriedly 237. contemptuous
9. health 65. haughty 123. dough 181. infatuation 238. marmoset
10. sprawl 66. sojourner 124. sword 182. cuckoo 239. oligarchy
11. certain 67. colossal 125. bribery 183. syllabus 240. bellwether
12. plumbing 68. Himalayan 126. penguin 184. attendee 241. rhubarb
13. ancient 69. diaphoresis 127. casino 185. centipede 242. audacious
14. tapestry 70. calamitous 128. bristle 186. fondant 243. vice versa
15. attagirl 71. kurta 129. developer 187. hermitage 244. misconstrue
16. hunky-dory 72. gannet 130. bestow 188. Bohemian 245. racketeer
17. squawk 73. palladium 131. cough 189. gossamer 246. pyrotechnics
18. parcel 74. brevet 132. boorish 190. jalapeño 247. continuum
19. commotion 75. Connemara 133. carnival 191. cohesive 248. lorikeet
20. beatboxing 76. jumbo 134. kangaroo 192. installation 249. dowager
21. furrow 77. mister 135. calzone 193. cognizant or 250. ricotta
22. smudge 78. ladybug 136. garment cognisant 251. contrariwise
23. garland 79. nacho 137. galaxy 194. insignia 252. ascension
24. cottage 80. keyhole 138. ingredient 195. rudiments 253. monocle
25. caroling or 81. flute 139. manifesto 196. cemetery 254. ebullience
carolling 82. bagpipe 140. jubilant 197. nuance 255. tapioca
26. shepherd 83. bother 141. gelato 198. sapphire 256. en masse
27. surmised 84. honeybee 142. pellet 199. foosball 257. iridescent
28. ramparts 85. foxes 143. guardian 200. gladiatorial 258. tupelo
29. garnet 86. glimmer 144. inclusion 201. disproportionate 259. quadriceps
30. amino 87. golden 145. balderdash 202. attributive 260. tableau
31. barograph 88. savvy 146. aromatherapy 203. jeepney 261. millivolt
32. teak 89. eggplant 147. cattail 204. adhesion 262. thwartwise
33. luggage 90. relish 148. mangrove 205. impetus 263. quorum
34. tarry 91. shrimp 149. conductor 206. prenuptial 264. irrevocable
35. throttle 92. purse 150. prejudice 207. Realtor 265. detritus
36. brayed 93. boycott 151. caravan 208. fratority 266. jambalaya
37. transistor 94. knock 152. flabbergast 209. olympiad 267. turmeric
38. amplify 95. moose 153. arborio 210. Brigadoon 268. irascible
39. juncture 96. holiday 154. corgi 211. oculus 269. rutabaga
40. vacancy 97. cartoon 155. fabulist 212. dubiously 270. sommelier
41. exploits 98. guess 156. Goliath 213. eradicate 271. Yeatsian
42. rabble-rouser 99. chowder 157. riviera 214. dishevel 272. pseudonymous
43. barrier 100. coffee 158. pilferer 215. circuitous 273. fanfaronade
44. gratingly 101. ginger 159. jamboree 216. syndicate 274. pruritus
45. sheriff 102. bonfire 160. graham 217. rialto 275. clematis
46. Angus 103. whisk 161. firmament 218. tyrannical 276. damson
47. scoundrel 104. widget 162. tarmac 219. duress 277. dactylic
48. Harlem 105. theme 163. deodorant 220. ipso facto 278. ecclesiology
49. pamphlet 106. dawdle 164. porridge 221. barracks 279. tarpaulin
50. depot 107. quack 165. duopoly 222. rhinestone 280. quatrefoil
51. trifecta 108. cricket 166. bonito 223. condemn 281. meringue
52. hazmat 109. squirm 167. officiant 224. vicinity 282. galapago
53. Antarctic 110. treadmill 168. marooned 225. umpirage 283. jicama
54. turbulent 111. crayon 169. turret 226. consortium 284. danseur
55. appetite 112. cowlick 170. marsupial 227. propinquity 285. roux
56. ignoble 113. turnip 171. extinguish 228. epistolary 286. tamari
57. vortices 114. permafrost 172. gauntlet 229. froufrou 287. ichthyology
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288. beaumontage 347. column
289. embouchure 348. Nordic
290. sepulchral 349. economics
291. extravasate 350. aggressive
292. rubefacient 351. irregular
293. escritoire 352. chieftain
294. vermicelli 353. watercress
295. wickiup 354. barbaric
296. imbroglio or 355. serfdom
embroglio 356. revelry
297. rococo 357. voracious
298. ranunculus 358. marinara
299. wakame 359. profiteer
300. Reykjavík 360. reputable
301. sweater 361. abdomen
302. dental 362. compulsory
303. scald 363. papaya or
304. beetle papaia
305. magpie 364. tantamount
306. haven 365. obnoxious
307. fizzled 366. contagion
308. tangy 367. utterance
309. saltine 368. netizen
310. plural 369. tablature
311. reclining 370. memoir
312. worthwhile 371. haggis
313. elsewhere 372. luminaria
314. ability 373. arthritis
315. eventual 374. transmogrify
316. vial 375. formicide
317. gala 376. mancala
318. impunity 377. glosseme
319. permit 378. cachinnate
320. rugby 379. echinacea
321. confirm 380. ganglion
322. fortress 381. katabasis or
323. derive catabasis
324. curable 382. fenugreek or
325. falsehood foenugreek
326. sentence 383. nene
327. informative 384. legerdemain
328. account 385. rhodium
329. departure 386. lachrymose
330. hobbit 387. terrigenous
331. moonlet 388. zoanthropy
332. soothe 389. pleonexia
333. edition 390. billiken
334. guileful 391. douceur
335. adjourn 392. Zoilus
336. thesis 393. acesodyne
337. supersonic 394. lebhaft
338. digit 395. vanadic
339. flamingo 396. quebrada
340. television 397. Isthmian
341. radius 398. macropodid
342. candor 399. hypoxemia
343. mediate 400. japonaiserie
344. pagan
345. foolhardiness
346. ogre
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 Alphabetical Index of Spelling Words

A C detritus – 265 G irregular – 351

abandon – 115 cachinnate – 378 developer – 129 gala – 317 irrevocable – 264
abdomen – 361 calamitous – 70 diaphoresis – 69 galapago – 282 Isthmian – 397
ability – 314 calico – 176 digit – 338 galaxy – 137 J
abundance – 63 calzone – 135 discomfiture – 231 ganglion – 380 jalapeño – 190
account – 328 candor – 342 dishevel – 214 gannet – 72 jambalaya – 266
acesodyne – 393 cannonade – 61 disproportionate – 201 garland – 23 jamboree – 159
adhesion – 204 caravan – 151 douceur – 391 garment – 136 japonaiserie – 400
adjourn – 335 carnival – 133 dough – 123 garnet – 29 jeepney – 203
aggressive – 350 caroling or dowager – 249 gauntlet – 172 jicama – 283
alpha – 122 carolling – 25 dubiously – 212 gelato – 141 jubilant – 140
amino – 30 cartoon – 97 duopoly – 165 ginger – 101 jumbo – 76
amplify – 38 casino – 127 duress – 219 gladiatorial – 200 juncture – 39
anagrams – 60 cattail – 147 E glimmer – 86
cemetery – 196 glosseme – 377 K
ancient – 13 ebullience – 254 kangaroo – 134
Angus – 46 centipede – 185 ecclesiology – 278 golden – 87
certain – 11 Goliath – 156 katabasis or
Antarctic – 53 echinacea – 379 catabasis – 381
appetite – 55 chieftain – 352 economics – 349 gossamer – 189
chowder – 99 graham – 160 keyhole – 80
arborio – 153 edition – 333 knock – 94
archives – 58 circuitous – 215 eggplant – 89 gratingly – 44
clematis – 275 grown-ups – 6 kurta – 71
aromatherapy – 146 elsewhere – 313
arthritis – 373 coffee – 100 embouchure – 289 guardian – 143 L
ascension – 252 cognizant or en masse – 256 guess – 98 lachrymose – 386
attagirl – 15 cognisant – 193 epistolary – 228 guileful – 334 lacrosse – 62
attendee – 184 cohesive – 191 eradicate – 213 H ladybug – 78
attributive – 202 colossal – 67 escritoire – 293 haggis – 371 lebhaft – 394
audacious – 242 column – 347 eventual – 315 Harlem – 48 legerdemain – 384
commotion – 19 exploits – 41 haughty – 65 lorikeet – 248
B compulsory – 362 luggage – 33
badger – 121 extinguish – 171 haven – 306
condemn – 223 extravasate – 291 hazmat – 52 luminaria – 372
bagpipe – 82 conductor – 149
balderdash – 145 F health – 9 M
confirm – 321 hermitage – 187
bandicoot – 232 Connemara – 75 fabulist – 155 macropodid – 398
barbaric – 354 fallacy – 178 Himalayan – 68 magpie – 305
consortium – 226 hobbit – 330
barograph – 31 contagion – 366 falsehood – 325 mancala – 376
barracks – 221 fanfaronade – 273 holiday – 96 mangrove – 148
contemptuous – 237 honest – 8
barrier – 43 continuum – 247 feign – 236 manifesto – 139
beatboxing – 20 fenugreek or honeybee – 84 marinara – 358
contrariwise – 251 hunky-dory – 16
beaumontage – 288 corgi – 154 foenugreek – 382 marionette – 230
beetle – 304 fiduciary – 235 hurriedly – 180 marmoset – 238
cottage – 24 hypoxemia – 399
bellwether – 240 cough – 131 firmament – 161 marooned – 168
bestow – 130 cowlick – 112 fizzled – 307 I marsupial – 170
billiken – 390 crayon – 111 flabbergast – 152 ichthyology – 287 mediate – 343
Bohemian – 188 cricket – 108 flamingo – 339 ignoble – 56 memoir – 370
bonfire – 102 cuckoo – 182 flute – 81 imbroglio or meringue – 281
bonito – 166 curable – 324 fondant – 186 embroglio – 296 millivolt – 261
boorish – 132 foolhardiness – 345 impetus – 205 misconstrue – 244
bother – 83 D foosball – 199 impunity – 318 mister – 77
boycott – 93 dactylic – 277 formicide – 375 inclusion – 144 monocle – 253
brayed – 36 damson – 276 fortress – 322 infatuation – 181 moonlet – 331
brevet – 74 danseur – 284 foxes – 85 informative – 327 moose – 95
bribery – 125 daughter – 117 fratority – 208 ingredient – 138
dawdle – 106 N
Brigadoon – 210 froufrou – 229 insignia – 194 nacho – 79
bristle – 128 dental – 302 furrow – 21 installation – 192
deodorant – 163 nene – 383
buffoonery – 177 ipso facto – 220 netizen – 368
burlap – 4 departure – 329 irascible – 268
depot – 50 Nordic – 348
iridescent – 257 novelist – 120
derive – 323
nuance – 197
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O ricotta – 250 treadmill – 110
obnoxious – 365 riviera – 157 trifecta – 51
oculus – 211 rococo – 297 truncate – 233
officiant – 167 roux – 285 tupelo – 258
ogre – 346 rubefacient – 292 turbulent – 54
oligarchy – 239 rudiments – 195 turmeric – 267
olympiad – 209 rugby – 320 turnip – 113
omen – 118 rutabaga – 269 turret – 169
P S tyrannical – 218
pagan – 344 saltine – 309 U
palindrome – 59 sapphire – 198 umpirage – 225
palladium – 73 savvy – 88 utterance – 367
pamphlet – 49 scald – 303 V
papaya or scoundrel – 47 vacancy – 40
papaia – 363 secret – 5 vacuum – 175
parcel – 18 sentence – 326 vanadic – 395
pattern – 119 sepulchral – 290 verandas or
peacenik – 234 serfdom – 355 verandahs – 64
pellet – 142 shake – 1 verbiage – 173
penguin – 126 shepherd – 26 vermicelli – 294
permafrost – 114 sheriff – 45 vial – 316
permit – 319 shrimp – 91 vice versa – 243
pilferer – 158 skedaddle – 174 vicinity – 224
piratical – 179 smudge – 22 voracious – 357
pleonexia – 389 sojourner – 66 vortices – 57
plumbing – 12 sommelier – 270
plural – 310 soothe – 332 W
porridge – 164 special – 7 wakame – 299
prejudice – 150 sprawl – 10 watercress – 353
prenuptial – 206 squawk – 17 whisk – 103
profiteer – 359 squirm – 109 wickiup – 295
proof – 2 stark – 3 widget – 104
propinquity – 227 sundae – 116 worthwhile – 312
pruritus – 274 supersonic – 337 Y
pseudonymous – 272 surmised – 27 Yeatsian – 271
purse – 92 sweater – 301
pyrotechnics – 246 sword – 124 Z
syllabus – 183 zoanthropy – 388
Q Zoilus – 392
quack – 107 syndicate – 216
quadriceps – 259 T
quatrefoil – 280 tablature – 369
quebrada – 396 tableau – 260
quorum – 263 tamari – 286
R tangy – 308
rabble-rouser – 42 tantamount – 364
racketeer – 245 tapestry – 14
radius – 341 tapioca – 255
ramparts – 28 tarmac – 162
ranunculus – 298 tarpaulin – 279
Realtor – 207 tarry – 34
reclining – 311 teak – 32
relish – 90 television – 340
reputable – 360 terrigenous – 387
revelry – 356 theme – 105
Reykjavík – 300 thesis – 336
rhinestone – 222 throttle – 35
rhodium – 385 thwartwise – 262
rhubarb – 241 transistor – 37
rialto – 217 transmogrify – 374

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 Oral Vocabulary Round: Intermediate Level

These 50 questions are based on words selected from the 2020 School Spelling Bee Study List.
Instructions: Read aloud the word, the vocabulary question and both options (A) and (B), but do not indicate which option is correct.
Respond to speller’s requests for the question and/or answer options to be repeated. You may also provide the spelling of the word in
question.

A speller may answer the question by providing:

• the letter associated with the chosen answer,

• the chosen answer or
• both.

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.”
_______________________________________________________________________________________

1. reply
What does it mean to reply? Because the following word could be confused with a
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
 A. answer in words or writing
5. grub
B. try again
Another word for grub is:
 A. food
Because the following word could be confused with a B. cleanser
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
2. manger
A manger is a: Because the following word has a near-homonym, say the
word then spell it aloud.
A. person who conducts or supervises
6. grits
 B. trough for cattle feed
Grits are:
 A. grains such as maize or barley which
have been hulled and ground
Because the following word could be confused with a
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud. B. small carnivorous mammals with grizzled
fur and slender bodies
3. brim
A brim is:
 A. the edge of a cup or bowl
Because the following word could be confused with a
B. any of various leguminous shrubs similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
7. jangled
If something jangled it:
Because the following word could be confused with a
A. shone brightly
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
 B. sounded harshly
4. snarl
What is a snarl?
8. flustered
A. a contrivance to catch an animal
Another word for flustered is:
 B. a tangle of hairs that is hard to unravel
 A. muddled
B. relaxed

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9. adrift
Something done adrift is done? Because the following word could be confused with a
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
A. with reassurance of the final outcome
15. loppers
 B. without controlled movement
Loppers are:
A. rooms or floors above another
Because the following word could be confused with a  B. pruning shears
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
10. marinate 16. heritage
What does it mean to marinate? What is a heritage?
A. to roll or compress into a thin plate A. the property brought to a husband by a
 B. to steep meat, fish or vegetables in a wife according to feudal custom upon her
brine marriage
 B. a legacy

Because the following word could be confused with a 17. periodically

similar word, say the word then spell it aloud. If you do something periodically, you do it:
11. punting A. with your eyes closed
If someone is punting, they are:  B. from time to time
 A. kicking a ball before the ball dropped
from the hands hits the ground
18. reluctant
B. preparing to dismount from a beam
Another word for reluctant is:
 A. unwilling
B. amenable
Because the following word could be confused with a
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
12. pardon 19. apprentice
A pardon is: An apprentice is:
 A. forgiveness of a fault or offense  A. a person who is in training to learn a
trade from a skilled worker
B. a European crab often used as food
B. something added to a more important
thing: an appendage

Because the following word has a homonym, say the word

then spell it aloud. 20. hymnal
13. levees A hymnal is:
Levees are:  A. a collection of church songs
 A. embankments designed to prevent B. an elaborately designed tapestry
flooding
B. those who float in the air especially in 21. bayonet
seeming defiance of gravity A bayonet is:
A. a large window projecting from the outer
14. disembark wall of a building
What does it mean to disembark?  B. a weapon
 A. leave or go ashore from a ship
B. split into pieces or smash 22. prestigious
Another word for prestigious is:
 A. honored
B. evocative

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23. intriguing 30. steeplechasing
Another word for intriguing is: What is steeplechasing?
 A. fascinating A. the institution whereby individuals are
B. appalling joined in marriage
 B. the sport of riding horses in races that
involve jumping over barriers
Because the following word has a near-homonym, say the
word then spell it aloud.
24. solace Because the following word could be confused with a
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
What is another word for solace?
31. gorp
A. bluff
Gorp is a:
 B. console
 A. snack of high-energy foods
B. large African antelope
25. absorptive
If something is described as absorptive, it is:
32. squadron
 A. characterized by assimilation
A squadron is:
B. able to pool on the surface of liquid
 A. a division of organization in the military
B. a signal fire commonly on a hill, tower or
26. tumultuous
pole
Something tumultuous is:
A. given to taking liberties
33. thermohaline
 B. characterized by commotion or change
If something is described as thermohaline, it:
 A. involves the joined effect of salinity and
temperature
Because the following word could be confused with a
B. consists of or resembles glass
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
27. commodore
34. currycomb
A commodore is:
What is a currycomb?
A. a reclining chair with a long seat, which
can support the outstretched legs of a  A. a tool for grooming horses
sitter B. a fragrant leaf
 B. an officer of the navy who typically ranks
next below a rear admiral and above a 35. emphatic
captain
Something described as emphatic:
 A. commands notice by insistence or
28. proportionate prominence
Something described as proportionate is: B. is composed of elements drawn from
 A. in balance or symmetry various sources
B. widely extended in scope or application
36. precariously
29. nefarious If something is done precariously, it is done:
Something nefarious is: A. in a frank manner
 A. detestable  B. in a manner marked by a lack of stability
B. kidney-shaped or security

37. smelters
Smelters are:
 A. furnace operators who melt ore
B. specialists in equine hoof care

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38. denouncement 45. culminate
What is a denouncement? What does it mean to culminate?
 A. the act of making known or declaring  A. reach a conclusive point
someone such as a culprit to people in B. select or separate out as inferior
command
B. an act (spoken or written) declaring that
46. coltan
something is surrendered or disowned
Coltan is:
A. the young of a camel
39. jodhpurs
 B. an ore that is a mixture of columbite and
What are jodhpurs?
tantalite
 A. pants for horseback riding
B. fleshy coverings of the jaw
47. dropsonde
What is a dropsonde?
40. divan
A. a stereoscopic instrument for determining
What is a divan? various eye defects
 A. a type of couch  B. a miniature radio transmitter dropped
B. someone who guards an entrance from a parachute

48. visite
Because the following word could be confused with a A visite is a type of:
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
 A. coat
41. proximo
B. shoe
Something described as proximo is:
A. situated before
49. satsuma
 B. of or taking place in the next month after
What is a satsuma?
the current one
A. a form of wrestling popular in Japan
 B. a cultivated mandarin tree producing
seedless fruit
Because the following word has a homonym, say the word
then spell it aloud.
42. guerrilla
Because the following word has a near-homonym, say the
A guerrilla is:
word then spell it aloud.
 A. a member of an independent band
50. McIntosh
engaged in predatory excursions during
war A McIntosh is a type of:
B. an anthropoid lowland ape from western A. computer software
Africa  B. apple

43. tartaric
In which class would you most likely learn about
something described as tartaric?
 A. chemistry
B. English

44. aspersions
What are aspersions?
A. acts of combining things at intervals
 B. slanderous expressions

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 Oral Vocabulary Round: Advanced Level

These 50 questions are based on words selected from 2020 Words of the Champions
Instructions: Read aloud the word, the vocabulary question and both options (A) and (B), but do not indicate which option is correct.
Respond to speller’s requests for the question and/or answer options to be repeated. You may also provide the spelling of the word in
question.

A speller may answer the question by providing:

• the letter associated with the chosen answer,

• the chosen answer or
• both.

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.”
________________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. bombastic
Because the following word could be confused with a Someone described as bombastic is:
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
A. having the power to form or create
1. diadem
 B. pompous and verbose
A diadem is a type of:
 A. crown
7. emulsify
B. footnote abbreviation
What does it mean to emulsify?
 A. to combine two hard-to-mix liquids
B. to deprive of masculine vigor or spirit
Because the following word could be confused with a
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
2. succinct 8. raucous
Something described as succinct: Something described as raucous is:
 A. lacks needless words  A. disorderly
B. has the ability to suction B. uncooked

3. juxtapose
Because the following word has a homonym, say the word
What does it mean to juxtapose?
then spell it aloud.
 A. to place side by side
9. queue
B. to sit for a length of time for a portrait
A queue is a sequence of messages or jobs that:
 A. are awaiting processing
4. ufology
B. have been canceled
Ufology is the study of:
A. birds' eggs
10. usurper
 B. unidentified flying objects
What does a usurper do?
 A. infringes upon the property of another
5. cruciferous
B. eats meals on a college campus
Something described as cruciferous:
A. is easily flammable
 B. belongs to the mustard family of plants

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11. epitome 19. credulity
What is an epitome? What is credulity?
A. an exclamatory sentence A. readiness to follow orders even without
 B. the essence of something explanation
 B. willingness to believe something is true
12. lingua franca
What is a lingua franca? 20. burgoo
A. an honest conversation Burgoo is type of:
 B. something that acts as a common A. flag
language  B. stew

21. dictum
Because the following word could be confused with a A dictum is a type of:
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
A. corrupt ruler
13. ostracism
 B. pronouncement
What does ostracism refer to?
 A. exclusion from social acceptance
22. muesli
B. cultivation of oysters in prepared beds
Muesli is:
 A. a breakfast cereal of Swiss origin
consisting of rolled oats, nuts and fruit
Because the following word has a homonym, say the word
B. a type of fruit characterized by flesh with
then spell it aloud.
a musky aroma
14. cygnet
What is a cygnet?
 A. a juvenile swan Because the following word could be confused with a
B. a notice or warning similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
23. widdershins
15. oviparous Something done widdershins is done:
Which of the following is an example of an oviparous A. while singing
animal?  B. counterclockwise
 A. a duck
B. a human 24. subliminal
Something described as subliminal:
16. facile A. occurs primarily underwater
Something described as facile is:  B. is designed to affect the mind on an
A. not mandatory unconscious level
 B. easily achieved
25. eschew
17. woad What does it mean to eschew?
What is woad? A. spit out
 A. a type of blue dye  B. shun
B. a Roman footpath

18. ruminate Because the following word has a near-homonym, say the
word then spell it aloud.
What does it mean to ruminate?
26. immolate
 A. carefully think about something
What does it mean to immolate?
B. practice a rhythmic Cuban dance
A. to violate moral principles
 B. to sacrifice or deny (as oneself) in the
interests of some goal or cause
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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
 36. mansard
Because the following word could be confused with a A mansard is what part of a house?
similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
A. window
27. germane
 B. roof
Something described as germane is:
 A. pertinent
37. entente
B. infectious
What is an entente?
A. an ambiguity of meaning arising from the
28. filbert language used
A filbert is a type of:  B. an international understanding
 A. hazelnut
B. shoe 38. mamushi
A mamushi is:
29. tutelage A. a skin irritant
Tutelage is:  B. a Japanese snake
 A. individual instruction
B. dense traffic
Because the following word could be confused with a
30. slumgullion similar word, say the word then spell it aloud.
Slumgullion is a type of: 39. abattoir
 A. stew What is an abattoir?
B. kitchen A. a sidewalk
 B. a slaughterhouse
31. papillon
What is a papillon? 40. duello
 A. a breed of toy spaniel Duello is:
B. the bell of a wind instrument A. a theory that divides the world into two
mutually irreducible elements or classes
of elements
32. olfactory
 B. the rules of two-person combat
Something olfactory:
A. grows in a small kitchen garden
41. mufti
 B. is connected with the sense of smell
A mufti is:
A. a governmental subdivision of the Union
33. moribund of Soviet Socialist Republics
Something described as moribund is:  B. a professional jurist who interprets
A. poverty-stricken Islamic religious law
 B. dormant
42. nacelle
34. hierurgical What is a nacelle?
Something described as hierurgical relates to: A. an eyelet on a tennis shoe
 A. an act of worship  B. a shelter for an aircraft engine
B. the removal of unwanted tissue
43. seiche
35. affable A seiche is:
Someone described as affable:  A. a fluctuation or oscillation of the surface
A. has a voice which sounds hoarse of a lake
 B. is easy to get along with B. a tool that has a long, curving blade for
cutting grass

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
 50. nimiety
Because the following word has a homonym, say the word What is another word for nimiety?
then spell it aloud.
A. decorum
44. miscible
 B. excess
Another word for miscible is:
A. edible
 B. mixable

45. karst
What is karst?
 A. a limestone region marked by
underground streams
B. a dry tableland of Africa that rises in
terraces

Because the following word has a homonym, say the word

then spell it aloud.
46. xiphias
A xiphias is a type of:
 A. big oceanic fish
B. divine wisdom

47. yakitori
Yakitori is:
A. an archaic Native American language
 B. small pieces of marinated and grilled
meat

Because the following word has a homonym, say the word

then spell it aloud.
48. elision
What is an elision?
A. a bruise caused by external violence
 B. omission of a sound in a word
combination, as in a contraction

Because the following word has a homonym, say the word

then spell it aloud.
49. tumulus
Where might you find a tumulus?
A. in an art supply store
 B. in a graveyard

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2020 District Pronouncer Guide
 Scripps National Spelling Bee Vocabulary Test
Intermediate Level – School Spelling Bee Study List

8. Where would you find withers?

1. Polo is a type of:
A. under the hood of an automobile
A. infectious disease
B. on a horse between the shoulder bones
B. game played on horseback
C. in an industrial restaurant kitchen
C. large mild chili pepper

9. Asparagus is:
2. Another word for stark is:
A. the ceremony of sprinkling altar, clergy and
A. cheerful people with holy water
B. the Greek god of darkness who dwelt in the
B. desolate
underworld
C. flowery C. a plant that is extensively grown for its edible
and tender young shoots

3. What do stirrups do? 10. What does it mean to admit?

A. provide padding for the vertebral column A. accept as the truth
B. hold and support the foot of a rider on horseback B. construct out of what is at hand
C. separate or divide two things of unequal size C. enjoy thoroughly

4. If something is charred, it is: 11. Broth is:

A. adorned with braids A. the administration of law
B. partly burned on the outside B. liquid used to cook meat, fish, grains or
C. barred from attention or consideration vegetables
C. a solemn pledge of fidelity

5. Giza is:
12. What does it mean to behold?
A. an eccentric or unreasonable person
A. establish deep rapport with
B. a type of duck-like bird
B. experience or apprehend
C. a city in northern Egypt near Cairo
C. engage a person in legal process

6. Fixity is:
13. Another word for shoo is:
A. the condition of sullen ill-temper
A. stay
B. the state or quality of being stable
B. scram
C. the philosophy or science of art
C. hello

7. Another word for petite is:

14. Laryngitis is:
A. little
A. knowledge of a particular event or situation
B. talkative
B. inflammation of the vocal cords
C. menacing
C. malformation resulting from disorganized tissue

This is copyrighted material. Do not post to Web.

15. Someone described as senile is: 22. Another word for suffused is:
A. marked by refined cultured interests and pursuits A. bound
B. displaying a decline of mental abilities associated B. injured
with old age
C. very foolish or reckless in behavior C. flushed

16. If something is described as incomprehensible, it is: 23. Another word for therapeutic is:

A. existing beyond the reach of the human mind A. snug

B. bringing or deserving severe rebuke or censure B. injurious

C. incapable of associating or blending because of C. curative

disharmony
24. Hyperion is a:
17. What does it mean to be contaminated?
A. figure of speech
A. destroyed totally
B. Titan
B. made unsuitable for use by the introduction of
elements that are undesirable or unwholesome C. pouched mammal
C. having made fine adjustments or divided into
marked intervals for optimal measuring
25. A Geiger is a:
18. Another word for accordance is: A. large endangered cat of forests in most of Asia
with a striped tawny coat
A. agreement B. river of western Europe formed by the
B. index confluence of two tributaries and flowing
through Germany
C. reconnaissance C. tool used to detect the presence of cosmic rays or
radioactive substances

19. If something is described as derogatory, it is:

A. expressive of disdain
B. full of or giving praise
C. cleared of guilt or blame

20. Merrimack is:

A. a mountain in Botswana of famed importance
B. a waterfall in Thailand named after an American
adventurer
C. a river in southern New Hampshire and
northeastern Massachusetts

21. Cahoots are a type of:

A. condition of belonging
B. secret agreement
C. undeniable bond

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 Scripps National Spelling Bee Vocabulary Test
Intermediate Level – Answer Key

1. Polo is a type of: 8. Where would you find withers?

A. infectious disease A. under the hood of an automobile
 B. game played on horseback  B. on a horse between the shoulder bones
C. large mild chili pepper C. in an industrial restaurant kitchen

2. Another word for stark is: 9. Asparagus is:

A. cheerful A. the ceremony of sprinkling altar, clergy and
people with holy water
 B. desolate
B. the Greek god of darkness who dwelt in the
C. flowery underworld
 C. a plant that is extensively grown for its edible
and tender young shoots
3. What do stirrups do?
A. provide padding for the vertebral column 10. What does it mean to admit?

 B. hold and support the foot of a rider on horseback  A. accept as the truth

C. separate or divide two things of unequal size B. construct out of what is at hand
C. enjoy thoroughly

4. If something is charred, it is:

A. adorned with braids 11. Broth is:

 B. partly burned on the outside A. the administration of law

C. barred from attention or consideration  B. liquid used to cook meat, fish, grains or
vegetables
C. a solemn pledge of fidelity
5. Giza is:
A. an eccentric or unreasonable person 12. What does it mean to behold?
B. a type of duck-like bird A. establish deep rapport with
 C. a city in northern Egypt near Cairo  B. experience or apprehend
C. engage a person in legal process
6. Fixity is:
A. the condition of sullen ill-temper 13. Another word for shoo is:
 B. the state or quality of being stable A. stay
C. the philosophy or science of art  B. scram
C. hello
7. Another word for petite is:
 A. little 14. Laryngitis is:
B. talkative A. knowledge of a particular event or situation
C. menacing  B. inflammation of the vocal cords
C. malformation resulting from disorganized tissue

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15. Someone described as senile is: 22. Another word for suffused is:
A. marked by refined cultured interests and pursuits A. bound
 B. displaying a decline of mental abilities associated B. injured
with old age
 C. flushed
C. very foolish or reckless in behavior

16. If something is described as incomprehensible, it is: 23. Another word for therapeutic is:

 A. existing beyond the reach of the human mind A. snug

B. bringing or deserving severe rebuke or censure B. injurious

 C. curative
C. incapable of associating or blending because of
disharmony
24. Hyperion is a:
17. What does it mean to be contaminated?
A. figure of speech
A. destroyed totally
 B. Titan
 B. made unsuitable for use by the introduction of
elements that are undesirable or unwholesome C. pouched mammal
C. having made fine adjustments or divided into
marked intervals for optimal measuring
25. A Geiger is a:
18. Another word for accordance is: A. large endangered cat of forests in most of Asia
with a striped tawny coat
 A. agreement B. river of western Europe formed by the
B. index confluence of two tributaries and flowing
through Germany
C. reconnaissance  C. tool used to detect the presence of cosmic rays or
radioactive substances

19. If something is described as derogatory, it is:

 A. expressive of disdain
B. full of or giving praise
C. cleared of guilt or blame

20. Merrimack is:

A. a mountain in Botswana of famed importance
B. a waterfall in Thailand named after an American
adventurer
 C. a river in southern New Hampshire and
northeastern Massachusetts

21. Cahoots are a type of:

A. condition of belonging
 B. secret agreement
C. undeniable bond

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 Scripps National Spelling Bee Vocabulary Test
Advanced Level – Words from
2020 Words of the Champions

1. If you winnow something, you: 8. What is another word for vulpine?

A. study and sort it A. voluptuous
B. repeat it in order B. solitary
C. gain it by using flattery C. crafty

2. Something described as antagonistic is: 9. Something described as sartorial relates to:

A. chronologically out of place A. philosophy
B. brave or heroic B. academics
C. hostile or in opposition C. clothing

3. What does it mean to circumscribe something? 10. Something described as reverberant is:
A. physically purify it A. marked by or tending to repeat in or as if in
repeated echoes
B. increase its entertainment value B. made sacred by religious, historic or other
C. draw a line around it associations
C. very or profoundly respectful

4. Another word for trepidation is:

11. Bulgogi is:
A. ennui
A. a sweet baked good with a crust made of
B. apprehension enriched dough
C. mirth B. cold rice garnished with bits of raw seafood
C. a Korean food consisting of marinated, thin-
sliced beef
5. A person who is churlish is:
A. rude 12. Someone described as sanctimonious would most
B. joyful likely:
A. serve or tend to maintain, encourage or permit
C. immature
B. exhibit elevated principles in order to impress
C. be extremely devoted to his or her academic
6. Decrepitude is: pursuits
A. a state of decay or ruin
13. What is another word for draconian?
B. a horseshoe-shaped mollusk
A. harsh
C. a crinkly, papery texture
B. moist
C. stellar
7. What does it mean to elucidate?
A. to explain clearly
B. join together into one unit or whole
C. lay waste, prey upon or plunder

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14. What does it mean to peculate? 21. What is another term for gypsum?
A. steal or appropriate wrongfully to one's own use A. plasterboard
B. fish commercially B. moth
C. ponder a subject C. Bohemian

15. What is a quittance? 22. Hubris is:

A. an inflammation of the feet of horses A. the organic portion of soil
B. a discharge from debt B. semisoft food made with chickpeas
C. a fixed rent due bimonthly C. overweening pride : arrogance

16. Something described as gustatory is associated with 23. Merino is a type of:
the sense of:
A. taste A. pants with a pleated front and tapered legs

B. touch B. fine wool and cotton yarn used for knitwear

C. smell C. red sauce often served with pasta

17. Surimi is: 24. If something is tripartite, it:

A. a small, gregarious burrowing mammal A. is made of three parts

B. a cheap fish product made to look like a more B. has political acuity
expensive seafood C. is dictated by wanderlust
C. a volcanic hill on Iwo Jima in the western Pacific

25. An anorak is a type of:

18. What is an annuity?
A. jacket
A. the yearly recurrence of a date marking an event
or occurrence of notable importance B. ox
B. the act or process of coming to direct knowledge C. tea
or certainty without reasoning or inferring
C. money that is paid in installments on a regular
basis

19. Which of the following would be mostly likely

described as isotopic?
A. a debate
B. an atom
C. a hurricane

20. If something is described as languorous, it:

A. emits robust and offensive odors
B. is adept at skilled and easy communication
C. produces listless indolence or dreaminess

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 Scripps National Spelling Bee Vocabulary Test
Advanced Level – Answer Key

1. If you winnow something, you: 8. What is another word for vulpine?

 A. study and sort it A. voluptuous
B. repeat it in order B. solitary
C. gain it by using flattery  C. crafty

2. Something described as antagonistic is: 9. Something described as sartorial relates to:

A. chronologically out of place A. philosophy
B. brave or heroic B. academics
 C. hostile or in opposition  C. clothing

3. What does it mean to circumscribe something? 10. Something described as reverberant is:
A. physically purify it  A. marked by or tending to repeat in or as if in
repeated echoes
B. increase its entertainment value B. made sacred by religious, historic or other
 C. draw a line around it associations
C. very or profoundly respectful

4. Another word for trepidation is:

11. Bulgogi is:
A. ennui
A. a sweet baked good with a crust made of
 B. apprehension enriched dough
C. mirth B. cold rice garnished with bits of raw seafood
 C. a Korean food consisting of marinated, thin-
sliced beef
5. A person who is churlish is:
 A. rude 12. Someone described as sanctimonious would most
B. joyful likely:
A. serve or tend to maintain, encourage or permit
C. immature
 B. exhibit elevated principles in order to impress
C. be extremely devoted to his or her academic
6. Decrepitude is: pursuits
 A. a state of decay or ruin
13. What is another word for draconian?
B. a horseshoe-shaped mollusk
 A. harsh
C. a crinkly, papery texture
B. moist
C. stellar
7. What does it mean to elucidate?
 A. to explain clearly
B. join together into one unit or whole
C. lay waste, prey upon or plunder

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14. What does it mean to peculate? 21. What is another term for gypsum?
 A. steal or appropriate wrongfully to one's own use  A. plasterboard
B. fish commercially B. moth
C. ponder a subject C. Bohemian

15. What is a quittance? 22. Hubris is:

A. an inflammation of the feet of horses A. the organic portion of soil
 B. a discharge from debt B. semisoft food made with chickpeas
C. a fixed rent due bimonthly  C. overweening pride : arrogance

16. Something described as gustatory is associated with 23. Merino is a type of:
the sense of:
 A. taste A. pants with a pleated front and tapered legs
 B. fine wool and cotton yarn used for knitwear
B. touch
C. smell C. red sauce often served with pasta

17. Surimi is: 24. If something is tripartite, it:

 A. is made of three parts
A. a small, gregarious burrowing mammal
 B. a cheap fish product made to look like a more B. has political acuity
expensive seafood C. is dictated by wanderlust
C. a volcanic hill on Iwo Jima in the western Pacific

25. An anorak is a type of:

18. What is an annuity?
 A. jacket
A. the yearly recurrence of a date marking an event
or occurrence of notable importance B. ox
B. the act or process of coming to direct knowledge C. tea
or certainty without reasoning or inferring
 C. money that is paid in installments on a regular
basis

19. Which of the following would be mostly likely

described as isotopic?
A. a debate
 B. an atom
C. a hurricane

20. If something is described as languorous, it:

A. emits robust and offensive odors
B. is adept at skilled and easy communication
 C. produces listless indolence or dreaminess

This is copyrighted material. Do not post to Web.