2008 
CLASSROOM PRONOUNCER GUIDE 
Grades Five and Six 


CONTENTS 


Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols ................................................................................ 2 
Guide for Language of Origin ..................................................................................................... 3 
Tips for Conducting Your Classroom Spelling Bee .................................................................... 4 
Rules for Local Spelling Bees .......................................................................................................5 
Words 1–50: Words Selected from Spelling Curricula ..............................................................10 
Words 51–75: Words Selected from 2008 Spell It! (www.myspellit.com)................................16 
Words 76–100: Words Selected from “Words You Need to Know” (www.myspellit.com) ......19 
Alphabetical Index .................................................................................................................... 23 
Numerical Index ....................................................................................................................... 24 


©2007, Scripps National Spelling Bee 
All rights reserved. 


Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols 

E..........banana, collect 


SE, TE 
....humdrum 

H..........as in one pronunciation used by r-droppers for bird 
(alternative \Ei\) 

D..........two-value symbol equivalent to the unstressed variants \E\, \i\, 
as in habit, duchess (\ShabDt\ = \ShabEt, -bit\) 

F...........immediately preceding \l\, \n\, \m\, \N\, as in battle, mitten, 
and in one pronunciation of cap and bells \-Fm-\, lock and 
key \-FN-\; immediately following \l\, \m\, \r\, as in one 
pronunciation of French table, prisme, titre 

Ei.........as in one pronunciation used by r-droppers for bird 
(alternative \H\) 

Er 
........operation; stressed, as in bird as pronounced by speakers 
who do not drop r; stressed and with centered period after the 
\r\, as in one pronunciation of burry (alternative \Hr\) and in 
one pronunciation of hurry (alternative \E·r\); stressed and 
with centered period after \Er\ as in one pronunciation of 
hurry (alternative \Er·\) 

a..........mat, map 


C..........day, fade, date, aorta 


B..........bother, cot; most American speakers have the same vowel in 
father, cart 

A..........father as pronounced by speakers who do not rhyme it with 
bother; farther and cart as pronounced by r-droppers 

aa 
........bad, bag, fan as often pronounced in an area having New 
York City and Washington, D.C., on its perimeter; in an 
emphatic syllable, as before a pause, often \aaE\ 

ai.........as in some pronunciations of bag, bang, pass 


aU........now, loud, some pronunciations of talcum 


b 
.........baby, rib 


ch........chin, nature \SnCchE(r)\ (actually, this sound is \t\ + \sh\) 


d 
.........elder, undone 


Z 
.........as in the usual American pronunciation of latter, ladder 


e..........bet, bed 


SG, TG 
....beat, nosebleed, evenly, sleepy 

G..........as in one pronunciation of evenly, sleepy, envious, 
igneous (alternative \i\) 

ee 
........(in transcriptions of foreign words only) indicates a vowel 
with the quality of e in bet but long, not the sound of ee in 
sleep: en arrière \BMnAryeer\ 

eU........as in one pronunciation of elk, helm 


f 
..........fifty, cuff 


g 
.........go, big 


h 
.........hat, ahead 


hw.......whale as pronounced by those who do not have the same 
pronunciation for both whale and wail 

i 
..........tip, one pronunciation of banish (alternative unstressed \G\),
one pronunciation of habit (alternative \E\; see D) 

I 
..........site, side, buy (actually, this sound is \B\ + \i\, or \A\ + \i\) 


iU 
........as in one pronunciation of milk, film 


j 
..........job, gem, edge, procedure \prESsGjE(r)\ (actually, this sound is 
\d\ + \zh\) 

k 
.........kin, cook, ache 


k 
.........as in one pronunciation of loch (alternative \k\), as in German 
ich-laut 

l 
..........lily, pool 


m 
........murmur, dim, nymph 


n 
.........no, own 


M 
..........indicates that a preceding vowel is pronounced with the nasal 
passages open, as in French un bon vin blanc \QMbPMvaMblBM\ 

N..........sing \SsiN\, singer \SsiNE(r)\, finger \SfiNgE(r)\, ink \SiNk\ 


P 
.........bone, snow, beau; one pronunciation of glory 


O 
.........saw, all, saurian; one pronunciation of horrid 


Q.........French bQuf, German Hölle 


R.........French feu, German Höhle 


Oi 
........coin, destroy, strawy, sawing 


PP 
.......(in transcriptions of foreign words only) indicates a vowel 
with the quality of o in bone but longer, not the sound of oo 
in food: comte \kPPMt\ 

p 
.........pepper, lip 


r 
..........rarity, one pronunciation of tar 


s 
..........source, less 


sh 
........with nothing between, as in shy, mission, machine, special 
(actually, this is a single sound, not two); with a stress mark 
between, two sounds as in death’s-head \SdethsThed\ 

t 
..........tie, attack; one pronunciation of latter (alternative \Z\) 


th 
........with nothing between, as in thin, ether (actually, this is a 
single sound, not two); with a stress mark between, two 
sounds as in knighthood \SnItThUd\ 

th 
........then, either (actually, this is a single sound, not two) 


V 
.........rule, fool, youth, union \SyVnyEn\, few \SfyV\ 


U 
.........pull, wood, curable \SkyUrEbEl\ 


W 
........German fVllen, hVbsch 


X 
........French rue, German fVhlen 


v 
.........vivid, give 


w.........we, away 


y 
.........yard, cue \SkyV\, union \SyVnyEn\ 


Y 
..........(in transcriptions of foreign words only) indicates that during 
articulation of the sound represented by the preceding 
character the tip of the tongue has substantially the position it 
has for the articulation of the first sound of yard, as in French 
digne \dGnY\ 

yV 
.......youth, union, cue, few 


yU 
.......curable 


z..........zone, raise 


zh........with nothing between, as in vision, azure \SazhE(r)\ (actually, 
this is a single sound, not two); with a stress mark between, 
two sounds as in rosehill \SrPzThil\ 

S...........mark preceding a syllable with primary (strongest) stress: 
\SpenmEnTship\ 

T...........mark preceding a syllable with secondary (next-strongest) 
stress: \SpenmEnTship\ 

( ) 
indicate that what is symbolized between is present in some 
utterances but not in others: factory \Sfakt(E)rG 
\ 

page 2 
Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols 


Guide for Language of Origin 

The citations for languages of origin in this book are a simplification of those given in Webster’s Third New International 
Dictionary, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster (Webster’s Third). For example, Webster’s Third gives OE, ME, and E, but 
we give only E. With New Latin (NL) and International Scientific Vocabulary (ISV), however, we tend to provide 
information that supplements that provided in Webster’s Third. Where Webster’s Third lists NL as the language of origin, we 
attempt to list the origin of the roots used to form the new word. We list ISV only when it is difficult to determine instead the 
languages from which the ISV element came. 

We do not always list all of the languages a word passed through before it entered modern English. Only those languages 
that significantly altered the word are listed, with the earliest language listed first and a greater-than sign (>) connecting the 
subsequent language(s). An ampersand (&) joins two languages and indicates that each contributed to one stage of the 
word’s history, while the word or indicates it is impossible to be certain which language is the true language of origin. A 
question mark (?) following a language indicates uncertainty about the information provided. We give the separate 
etymologies of each word element regularly used in Webster’s Third, with one exception: combining form(s) [cf(f)]. 
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. The separate word element 
etymologies are joined by a plus sign (+). Page 16a in Webster’s Third contains more detailed information about 
etymological entries. 

Example 
Explanation 

[L > F + L] 
The first part of the word was originally Latin. It then passed through French. 
The second part is from Latin. 

[L&F > E] 
The word was originally formed from a combination of French and Latin and 
then became English. 

[L or F > E] 
The word came from either Latin or French (we do not know which), and then 
it became English. 

[(E + Fcf) > G] 
The first part of the word is English. The second part is a French combining 
form. It was formed in German, from which we got it. 

[Ecf + E + Ecff] 
The first part of the word is an English combining form. The second part is 
English. The ending consists of English combining forms. 

[F? > Sp] 
The word might have come from French, but we got it from Spanish. 

When abbreviations for languages and other etymological information are used in this book, they are the abbreviations used 
in Webster'sThird. A comprehensive list of these abbreviations can be found on pages 52a–54a of Webster’s Third. Some of 
the more frequently used abbreviations that appear in this book and what they stand for are listed below. 

Ar Arabic It Italian 
cf(f) combining form(s) Jpn Japanese 
D Dutch L Latin 
E English Norw Norwegian 
F French O old 
G German Per Persian 
geog geographical Pg Portuguese 
Gk Greek Pol Polish 
Gmc Germanic Russ Russian 
Heb Hebrew Skt Sanskrit 
imit imitative Sp Spanish 
Ir Irish Sw Swedish 
ISV International Scientific Vocabulary W Welsh 

page 3 
Guide for Language of Origin 


Tips for Conducting Your Classroom Spelling Bee 

Help your students prepare by: 

• 
informing students that they may obtain free word lists and study online at www.myspellit.com and 
• 
checking out www.myspellit.com for study lists and activities you may wish to use in your classroom. 
Become familiar with the organization of this book, in which: 

• 
words 1–50 were selected from spelling curricula for grades five and six, 
• 
words 51–75 were selected from language categories at www.myspellit.com (words designated as challenge words 
at www.myspellit.com are not among the words on this list), and 
• 
words 76–100 were selected from the “Words You Need to Know” list at www.myspellit.com. 
As pronouncer, be sure to: 

• 
review the words on this list prior to your bee, 
• 
refer to the Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols (page 2) if you need assistance interpreting diacritical 
markings, and 
• 
refer to the Guide for Language of Origin (page 3) if you need assistance interpreting language of origin 
information. 
As judge, keep in mind that: 

• 
you may consult our Rules for Local Spelling Bees (page 5) if you need rules (pay special attention to Rule 10 for 
instruction regarding end-of-bee procedure) and 
• 
you may wish to have a copy of Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster, 
available for reference. This book provides the Webster’s Third page and column location for each word, designated 
in parentheses after the part of speech as follows: (page number-column number). If you do not have a copy of 
Webster’s Third, the preferred alternative is Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, eleventh edition, copyright 
2003, Merriam-Webster. 
Resources 


page 4 
Tips for Conducting Your Classroom Spelling Bee 


Rules for Local Spelling Bees 

Preface 

The Rules for Local Spelling Bees have been revised. Please note, in particular, changes in requirements for eligibility. We 
encourage spellers, parents, teachers, and spelling bee officials to read these rules prior to any spelling bee. 

These rules are guidelines designed to assist spelling bee officials and spellers at the local level. Spellers should check with 
their local spelling bee officials for the rules in effect in their area. Spelling bee officials include the pronouncer, judges, 
coordinator, and sponsor. 

While local spelling bee officials have the prerogative to amend Rules 2 through 11, amendments—particularly any 
amendments to the end-of-bee procedure—should be undertaken only with careful consideration of the various outcomes 
that may result from the amendments. 

The Scripps National Spelling Bee has no authority over the conduct of local spelling bees (namely, spelling bees other than 
the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C.). Consequently, the national office will not render judgments relating 
to the conduct of local spelling bees. Individuals bearing complaints about the conduct of local spelling bees should register 
their concerns with local spelling bee officials. DECISIONS OF LOCAL SPELLING BEE OFFICIALS ARE FINAL. 

These Rules for Local Spelling Bees are not the rules in effect at the Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. 
When a local spelling bee official says, “We use the national rules,” he or she is probably indicating that the Rules for Local 
Spelling Bees are in effect. 

The Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., operates under a significantly different set of rules called the 
Contest Rules of the 2008 Scripps National Spelling Bee. These rules—obtainable through www.spellingbee.com—contain 
provisions that are specific to unique conditions at the event in Washington, D.C. Their successful implementation at the 
local level is considered impossible and therefore is not recommended. 

Rules 

1. Eligibility: A speller qualifying for the 2008 Scripps 
National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., must meet 
these requirements: 
(1) The speller must not have won a Scripps National 
Spelling Bee championship in Washington, D.C. 
(2) The speller must attend a school that is officially 
enrolled with the Scripps National Spelling Bee. 
(3) The speller must not have passed beyond the 
eighth grade on or before February 1, 2008. 
(4) The speller must not have repeated fourth, fifth, 
sixth, seventh, or eighth grade for the purpose of 
extending spelling bee eligibility. If the speller has 
repeated fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, or eighth grade, 
the speller must notify the Scripps National Spelling 
Bee of the circumstances of grade repetition by 
March 26, 2008; and the Scripps National Spelling 
Bee will, at its sole discretion, determine the speller’s 
eligibility status on or before April 30, 2008. 
(5) The speller—or the speller’s parent, legal 
guardian, or school official acting on the speller’s 
behalf—must not have declared to another entity an 
academic classification higher than eighth grade for 
any purpose, including high school graduation 
equivalency or proficiency examinations and/or 
examinations such as the PSAT, SAT, or ACT. 

(6) The speller must not have earned the legal 
equivalent of a high school diploma. 
(7) The speller must not have completed or have been 
enrolled in more than six high school–level courses 
or two college-level courses on or before April 30, 
2008. 
(8) The speller must not eschew normal school 
activity to study for spelling bees. The Scripps 
National Spelling Bee defines normal school activity 
as adherence to at least four courses of study other 
than language arts, spelling, Latin, Greek, 
vocabulary, and etymology for at least four hours per 
weekday for 34 of the 38 weeks between September 
1, 2007, and May 24, 2008. 
(9) The speller must not have reached his/her 15th 
birthday on or before September 1, 2007. 
(10) The speller must have won a final local spelling 
bee on or after February 1, 2008. 
page 5 
Rules for Local Spelling Bees 


(11) Once having been disqualified at any level of a 
sponsor’s spelling bee program between June 2007 
and April 2008, the speller remains disqualified for 
the 2008 Scripps National Spelling Bee and may not 
seek advancement in the 2008 Scripps National 
Spelling Bee program through another sponsor 
and/or enrollment in another school. 
(12) The speller, upon qualifying for the 2008 
Scripps National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C., 
must submit a completed Champion Bio Form, 
a Certification of Eligibility Form, a signed 
Appearance Consent and Release Form, and a hard 
copy of a photo to the Scripps National Spelling Bee 
no later than March 26, 2008. The speller will notify 
the Bee—at least 24 hours prior to the first day of 
competition in the Scripps National Spelling Bee in 
Washington, D.C.—if any of the statements made on 
the Certification of Eligibility Form are no longer 
true or require updating. The speller’s sponsor will 
provide access to the necessary forms. 
The Scripps National Spelling Bee may disqualify prior 
to or during competition any speller who is not in 
compliance with any of its eligibility requirements; and 
it may—at any time between the conclusion of the 2008 
Scripps National Spelling Bee and April 30, 2009— 
require any speller who is found to have not been in 
compliance with any of the eligibility requirements to 
forfeit the prizes, rank, and other benefits accorded to the 
speller as a result of participation in the 2008 Scripps 
National Spelling Bee. 

2. Format: The spelling bee is conducted in rounds. Each 
speller remaining in the spelling bee at the start of a round 
spells one word in each round—except in the case of a 
written, multiple choice, or online test. The spelling bee 
may be conducted orally or in writing or in a manner that 
is a combination of the two; however, if the spelling bee 
officials specify an oral format, the speller may not 
demand a written format except under the conditions of 
Rule 4. 
3. Word list: Local spelling bee officials are responsible 
for selecting the word lists for use at each local spelling 
bee. Many local spelling bee officials use word lists 
generated by the Scripps National Spelling Bee. These 
lists include many words that appear in the current online 
edition of Spell It! as well as some “end-of-bee” words. 
All words on Scripps National Spelling Bee word lists are 
entries in Webster’s Third New International Dictionary 
and its addenda section, copyright 2002, Merriam-
Webster, the official dictionary of the Scripps National 
Spelling Bee. 
4. Special needs: Spelling bee officials will strive to 
provide accommodation for spellers who have physical 
challenges. All requests for spelling bee officials to 
accommodate special needs involving sight, hearing, 
speech, or movement should be directed to spelling bee 
officials well in advance of the spelling bee date. The 
judges have discretionary power to amend oral and/or 
written spelling requirements on a case-by-case basis for 
spellers with diagnosed medical conditions involving 
sight, hearing, speech, or movement. 

5. Pronouncer’s role: The pronouncer strives to 
pronounce words according to the diacritical markings in 
Scripps National Spelling Bee word lists and Webster’s 
Third New International Dictionary and its addenda 
section, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster. 
Homonyms: If a word has one or more homonyms, 
the pronouncer indicates which word is to be spelled 
by defining the word. 

Speller’s requests: The pronouncer responds to the 
speller’s requests for a definition, sentence, part of 
speech, language(s) of origin, and alternate 
pronunciation(s). When presented with requests for 
alternate pronunciations, the pronouncer or an aide to 
the pronouncer checks for alternate pronunciations in 
either Webster’s Third New International Dictionary 
and its addenda section, copyright 2002, Merriam-
Webster or Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate 
Dictionary, eleventh edition. The pronouncer does 
not entertain root word questions or requests for 
alternate definitions. 

Pronouncer’s sense of helpfulness: The pronouncer 
may offer word information—without the speller 
having requested the information—if the pronouncer 
senses that the information is helpful and the 
information is presented in the entry for the word in 
a 2008 Scripps National Spelling Bee word list or 
Webster’s Third New International Dictionary and its 
addenda section, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster. 

6. Judges’ role: The judges uphold the rules and 
determine whether or not words are spelled correctly. 
They also render final decisions on appeals in accordance 
with Rule 11. They are in complete control of the 
competition, and their decision is final on all questions. 
Interaction with the speller: Because seeing the 
speller’s lip movements may be critical in detecting 
misunderstandings or misspellings, the judges 
encourage spellers to face them when pronouncing 
and spelling the word. 

Notice of rules: The judges ensure that all spellers 
and audience members are given an opportunity to 
receive a complete copy of the rules prior to the start 
of the spelling bee. 

page 6 
Rules for Local Spelling Bees 


Misunderstandings: The judges participate in the 
exchange of information between the speller and 
pronouncer if they feel that clarification is needed. 
Also, the judges listen carefully to the speller’s 
pronunciation of the word; and, if they sense that 
the speller has misunderstood the word, the judges 
work with the speller and pronouncer until they are 
satisfied that reasonable attempts have been made to 
assist the speller in understanding the word. While 
the judges are responsible for attempting to detect 
a speller’s misunderstanding, it is sometimes 
impossible to detect a misunderstanding until a 
spelling error has been made. The judges are not 
responsible for the speller’s misunderstanding. 

Pronouncer errors: The judges compare the 
pronouncer’s pronunciation with the diacritical 
markings in the word list. If the judges feel that the 
pronouncer’s pronunciation does not match the 
pronunciation specified in the diacritical markings, 
the judges direct the pronouncer to correct the error 
as soon as it is detected. 

Disqualifications for reasons other than clear 
misspelling: The judges will disqualify a speller 

(1) who refuses a request to start spelling; (2) who 
does not approach the microphone when it is time 
to receive the word; (3) who does not comply with 
the eligibility requirements; (4) who engages in 
unsportsmanlike conduct; (5) who, in the process of 
retracing a spelling, alters the letters or sequence of 
letters from those first uttered; or (6) who, in the 
process of spelling, utters unintelligible or nonsense 
sounds. 
Speller activities that do not merit disqualification: 
The judges may not disqualify a speller (1) for failing 
to pronounce the word either before or after spelling 
it, (2) for asking a question, or (3) for noting or 
failing to note the capitalization of a word. 

7. Speller’s role: The speller makes an effort to face the 
judges and pronounce the word for the judges before 
spelling it and after spelling it. The speller while facing 
the judges makes an effort to utter each letter distinctly 
and with sufficient volume to be understood by the 
judges. The speller may ask the pronouncer to say the 
word again, define it, use it in a sentence, provide the part 
of speech, provide the language(s) of origin, and/or 
provide an alternate pronunciation or pronunciations. 
Misunderstandings: The speller is responsible for 
any misunderstanding of the word unless (1) the 
pronouncer never provided a correct pronunciation; 

(2) the pronouncer provided incorrect information 
regarding the definition, part of speech, or language 
of origin; or (3) the speller correctly spelled a 
homonym of the word and the pronouncer failed to 
either offer a definition or distinguish the homonyms. 

8. Correction of a misspelling: The pronouncer and 
judges will not ask the speller to correct another speller’s 
misspelling, even in end-of-bee circumstances. 
9. Misspelling: Upon incorrectly spelling a word, the 
speller immediately drops out of the competition, except 
as provided in Rule 10. 
10. End-of-bee procedure: 
If all spellers in a round misspell: If none of the 
spellers remaining in the spelling bee at the start of 
a round spells a word correctly during that round, all 
remain in the competition and a new round begins. 

Ties: All spellers eliminated in the same round are 
tied for the same place. After the champion has 
been determined, spelling bee officials may opt to 
conduct tiebreakers (of their own design) if 
tiebreakers are necessary for the awarding of prizes 
or the determination of qualifying spellers for the 
next level of competition. 

If only one speller in a round spells correctly: If 
only one speller spells correctly in a round, a new 
one-word round begins and the speller is given an 
opportunity to spell the next word on the list 
(anticipated championship word). If the speller 
succeeds in correctly spelling the anticipated 
championship word in this one-word round, the 
speller is declared the champion. 

Example: In Round 12 there are four spellers. 
Spellers 6 and 21 misspell. Speller 30 spells 
correctly. Speller 42 misspells. So, Speller 30 is 
the only speller in the round to spell correctly. 
Speller 30 begins Round 13—a one-word round— 
and is offered the anticipated championship word. 
Speller 30 correctly spells the anticipated 
championship word and is declared champion. 

Example: Two spellers spell in Round 10. Speller 
14 misspells. Speller 25 spells correctly. Speller 25 
begins Round 11—a one-word round—and is 
offered the anticipated championship word. 
Speller 25 correctly spells the anticipated 
championship word and is declared champion. 

Example: Two spellers spell in Round 16. Speller 
3 spells correctly. Speller 9 misspells. Speller 3 
begins Round 17—a one-word round—and is 
offered the anticipated championship word. 
Speller 3 correctly spells the anticipated 
championship word and is declared champion. 

page 7 
Rules for Local Spelling Bees 


VERY IMPORTANT: If a speller misspells the 
anticipated championship word in a one-word round: 
A new round begins with ALL the spellers who 
spelled (correctly and incorrectly) in the previous 
round. These spellers spell in their original order. 

Example: In Round 8 there are three spellers. 
Speller 12 spells correctly and Spellers 23 and 37 
misspell. Round 9—a one-word round—begins, 
and Speller 12 is offered the anticipated 
championship word. Speller 12 misspells the 
anticipated championship word. Round 10 begins 
and includes Spellers 12, 23, and 37. The rules 
prescribe that spellers 12, 23, and 37 spell in their 
original order; so Speller 12 gets the next word on 
the list even though Speller 12 misspelled the 
previous word on the list. Round 10 is not 
complete until all three spellers have spelled. 

Tip: Spelling bee officials may find it helpful to designate 
a record keeper or judge to track the progress of spellers 
throughout the rounds. The record keeper’s information 
will be helpful in preventing end-of-bee confusion. 

11. Appeals: The speller’s parent(s), legal guardian, or 
teacher may appeal to the judges for the speller’s 
reinstatement provided that the appeal is in compliance 
with the appeal protocol. The judges render a final 
decision on the appeal in accordance with the 
reinstatement protocol. 
Appeal protocol 

A written appeal must be hand delivered to the 
designated official (usually the spelling bee 
coordinator/director). The deadline for delivering an 
appeal is before the speller affected would have 
received his/her next word had he/she stayed in the 
spelling bee; however, to minimize disruptions to the 
spelling bee, every effort should be made to deliver 
an appeal by the end of the round in which the speller 
was eliminated. When five or fewer spellers remain, 
the written appeal requirement is suspended, and an 
oral appeal must be made before the speller would 
have received his/her next word had he/she stayed in 
the spelling bee. A written appeal must provide the 
speller’s name, the word in question, and the reason 
the speller should be reinstated. 

While the competition is in session, individuals who 
have filed appeals may not directly approach the 
judges unless explicit permission to approach the 
judges has been given. The judges will contact the 
speller if they decide to reinstate the speller. To 
minimize disruption to the pace of the spelling bee 
and the concentration of the spellers, the judges are 
under no obligation to stop the spelling bee in order 
to discuss with the speller’s parent(s), legal guardian, 

or teacher a denied appeal. The judges’ decisions are 
final and are subject neither to review nor to reversal 
by the Scripps National Spelling Bee’s headquarters 
office. 

Reinstatement protocol 

Pronouncer mispronunciation: An appeal claiming 
that a speller’s elimination from the spelling bee was 
due to pronunciation error should be denied unless 
there is agreement that the pronouncer never offered 
a correct pronunciation. 

Alternate pronunciations: An appeal claiming that the 
pronouncer did not offer alternate pronunciations 
should be denied unless it is determined that the 
speller requested alternate pronunciations and the 
pronouncer did not accommodate the speller’s 
request for alternate pronunciations and it appears 
that the speller’s spelling almost matches the correct 
spelling. 

Speller’s misunderstanding: An appeal claiming that 
the speller’s elimination from the spelling bee was 
due to the speller’s not understanding the word [its 
pronunciation(s) and/or other information about the 
word] should be denied. It is the speller’s 
responsibility to understand the word. 

Speller offered correct spelling, as indicated in 
Webster’s Third: An appeal claiming that the speller 
correctly spelled the word should be denied unless an 
audio recording of the bee’s proceedings or bee 
officials’ recollections clearly indicate that the word 
was indeed spelled correctly. 

Exception: If the speller’s spelling is listed in 
Webster’s Third New International Dictionary and 
its addenda section, Merriam-Webster, copyright 
2002, the speller should be reinstated if all of the 
following three criteria are met: (1) The 
pronunciations of the words are identical, (2) the 
definitions of the words are identical, and (3) the 
words are clearly identified as being standard 
variants of each other. Spellings at other locations 
having temporal labels (such as archaic, obsolete), 
stylistic labels (such as substand, nonstand), or 
regional labels (such as North, Midland, Irish) 
which differ from main entry spellings not having 
these status labels will not be accepted as correct. 

Speller offered correct spelling, as indicated in a 
dictionary other than Webster’s Third: An appeal 
claiming that the speller spelled the word correctly 
according to a dictionary other than Webster’s Third 
New International Dictionary and its addenda 
section, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster, should 
be denied. 

page 8 
Rules for Local Spelling Bees 


Homonym: An appeal claiming that the speller’s 
elimination was unfair because the speller’s word is 
a homonym should be denied unless the pronouncer 
failed to define the word and the speller correctly 
spelled a homonym of the word. 

Incorrect or unsolicited information: An appeal 
claiming that the speller’s elimination was unfair 
because the pronouncer offered incorrect or 
unsolicited information about the word should be 
denied unless it is determined that the pronouncer 
indeed gave factually incorrect information and it 
appears that the speller’s spelling would have been 
correct if not for the incorrect or unsolicited 
information provided by the pronouncer. 

Bee officials failed to correct a misunderstanding: 
An appeal claiming that the speller misspelled 
because the judges and/or pronouncer failed to 
correct the speller’s mispronunciation of the word 
should be denied. It is sometimes impossible to 
detect a speller’s mispronunciation or 
misunderstanding, and ultimately it is the 
responsibility of the speller to understand and 
correctly pronounce the word. 

Disqualification request: An appeal seeking to 
dislodge another speller from the spelling bee should 
be denied. 

page 9 
Rules for Local Spelling Bees 


Words 1–50 are selected from spelling curricula 
for grades five and six. 

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. 


1. design \ dDSzIn \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

2. scribble \ SskribEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

3. nephew \ Sne(T)fyV \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

4. celebrate \ SselETbrCt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

5. moisture \ SmOis(h)chE(r) \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

6. loyalty \ SlOi(E)ltG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

7. ornament \ SO(r)nEmEnt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Latin] v (611-3) plan and plot out the shape and disposition of 
the parts of and the structural constituents of : draw the plans for. 

An architect will design the addition to the natural history 
museum. 

[Latin] v (2041-2) write hastily or carelessly without regard to 
legibility, correctness, or considered thought. 

“Fill out the test blanks carefully, and don’t scribble,” Ms. 
Stewart told her pupils. 

[L > F > E] n (1517-2) the son of a brother or sister. 

Griffin took his nephew to the zoo for the afternoon. 

[Latin] v (359-1) demonstrate grateful and happy satisfaction 
in (as an anniversary or event) by engaging in festivities, 
merrymaking, or other similar deviation from accustomed 
routine. 

About 100 friends and relatives will celebrate Mom and Dad’s 
50th wedding anniversary at a surprise party. 

[L > F] n (1453-3) liquid (as water) diffused or condensed in 
relatively small quantity and dispersed through a gas as invisible 
vapor or as fog or in or on a solid body as dampness or 
condensed on a cool surface as visible dew. 

Charmaine wiped the moisture from her water glass before 
setting it on the nightstand. 

[L > F > E] n (1342-3) the quality, state, or an instance of 
being faithful and devoted : fidelity or tenacious adherence. 

Although Mario did not always agree with his parents’ decisions, 
family loyalty always came first. 

[L > F > E] n (1592-2) something that lends grace or beauty. 

The entry hall of the mansion has a carved plaster ornament 
covering much of the ceiling. 

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 Webster’s 
Third New International Dictionary for further information or skip the word. 
It is possible that we did not note the fact that the word is a homonym. 


page 10 
Words Selected from Spelling Curricula 


8. clumsiness \ SklEmzGnDs \ [E? + Ecf] n (430-3) the quality of lacking dexterity, skill, 
[other pronunciation(s) 
nimbleness, or grace. 
may exist] 

The clown’s clumsiness had the children giggling with glee. 

The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


9. popular \ SpBpyElE(r) \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

10. accident \ SaksEdEnt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

11. continue \ kEnSti(T)nyV \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

12. fossil \ SfBsEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

13. delicious \ dDSlishEs \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

14. fable \ SfCbEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

15. janitor \ SjanEZE(r) \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Etruscan? > L] adj (1766-1) [Note: Could be confused with 

poplar.] given general praise, enthusiasm, liking, or support. 
The class was eager to read and discuss the popular Harry 
Potter novels. 

[Latin] n (11-3) an event or condition occurring by chance or 
arising from unknown or remote causes. 

Mr. Li always says that meeting his wife by bumping into her 
was the happiest accident of his life. 

[L > F] v (493-3) keep going : maintain a course, direction, or 
progress. 

The boat will continue downriver after discharging the passengers. 

[Latin] n (897-1) any remains, impression, or trace of an 
animal or plant of past geological ages that has been preserved in 
Earth’s crust. 

The largest cockroach fossil that has been found is three and a 
half inches long. 

[Latin] adj (597-1) affording an enjoyable sensory reaction 
especially involving the sense of taste or smell. 

Judith asked Mary if she would share with her the recipe for her 
delicious fudge. 

[L > F] n (811-1) a narration intended to enforce some useful 
truth or precept; especially : one in which animals and even 
inanimate objects speak and act like human beings. 

Amy especially enjoyed the fable of the tortoise and the hare. 

[Latin] n (1209-2) one that keeps the premises of an apartment, 
office, or other building clean and free of refuse, tends the heating 
system, and makes minor repairs. 

Morris took a part-time job as a janitor at an apartment complex. 

Has a speller asked you to provide the root of the word? Root word questions can be 
extremely difficult to answer correctly, and a correct answer may often mislead the speller. 
For this reason, you should inform the speller that root word questions 
are entertained only at the national level of competition. 


Remember: Roots and origins are separate matters. You may answer questions about 
a word’s origin readily with the word origin information provided for each word’s entry. 


page 11 
Words Selected from Spelling Curricula 


16. smear \ Ssmi(E)r \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

17. wisdom \ SwizdEm \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

18. cruelty \ SkrVEltG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

19. profit \ SprBfDt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

20. furniture \ SfErnDchEr \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

21. ancient \ SCnshEnt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

22. rigid \ SrijDd \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

23. aliens \ SClGEnz \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

24. grocery \ SgrPs(E)rG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[English] v (2150-3) spread (a substance) over a surface. 

Mike will usually smear a thick layer of peanut butter over his 
toast. 

[English] n (2624-3) the intelligent application of learning : 
ability to discern inner qualities and essential relationships : 
insight. 

The judge, in his wisdom and compassion, did not order the 
young vandals to jail but made them make restitution for the 
damage. 

[L > F] n (546-1) an action disposed to inflict pain especially 
in a wanton, insensate, or vindictive manner : inhuman treatment. 

The warden ordered the guards not to treat the prisoners with 
any cruelty. 

[L > F > E] n (1811-3) the excess of the price received over the 
cost of purchasing and handling or of producing and marketing 
goods. 

Scott would probably realize a larger profit on the sale of his 
condo if he remodeled the kitchen and master bedroom. 

[Gmc > F] n (924-1) articles of convenience or decoration used 
to equip for use living quarters, offices, and public and private 
buildings—usually used or movable articles. 

Edith sold most of her furniture before she moved to Florida. 

[L > E] adj (79-3) existing from a long-past date or period : 
of early origin. 

Molly wants to go visit the ancient Mayan ruins in Belize. 

[L > E] adj (1957-1) very firm rather than pliant in 
composition or structure : lacking or devoid of flexibility. 

Steel is rigid when in small pieces, but it is considered a flexible 
material for building skyscrapers. 

[Latin] n pl (53-1) persons owing allegiance to another 
country : foreign-born residents who have not been naturalized 
and are still subjects or citizens of a foreign country. 

The restaurant was accused of employing aliens who had not 
been lawfully admitted into the United States. 

[F > E] n (1001-2) the place of business of a retail dealer in 
staple foodstuffs (as coffee, sugar, flour) and usually meats and 
other foods (as fruits, vegetables, dairy products) and many 
household supplies (as soap, matches, paper napkins) : a store 
of such a retailer. 

The local grocery managed to survive despite the opening of a 
large supermarket nearby. 

page 12 
Words Selected from Spelling Curricula 


25. velvet \ SvelvDt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

26. unpleasant \ EnSplezFnt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

27. allowance \ ESlaUEn(t)s \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

28. changeable \ SchCnjEbEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[L > F] n (2539-2) a clothing and upholstery fabric in a wide 
range of constructions and weights made of silk, rayon, cotton, 
nylon, or wool and characterized by a short soft dense pile. 

The princess wore a cloak of blue velvet embroidered with gold 
thread. 

[E + F] adj (2506-1) not amiable or agreeable : displeasing : 
offensive. 

An unpleasant odor assailed Brenda’s nostrils when she opened 
the refrigerator. 

[French] n (58-2) a sum granted as a reimbursement or a 
bounty or as appropriate for such purposes as personal or 
household expenses. 

Gretchen begged her parents for a higher allowance so that she 
could attend sports events more frequently. 

[Celt > L > F + Ecf] adj (374-2) having a marked tendency to 
pass from one form, appearance, position, state, or stage to 
another. 

Kevin’s moods are as changeable as his clothing style. 

As you near the end of this section, compare the number of words that remain with the number of spellers 
still standing. Begin a new round in this section only if the number of words remaining is greater than 
the number of spellers still standing. Move to the next section of words if this criterion is not met. 

29. unique \ yVSnGk \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

30. brilliant \ SbrilyEnt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

31. ordinary \ SO(r)dFnTerG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Latin] adj (2500-2) being without a like or equal : single in 
kind or excellence. 

The class agreed that Martin Luther King Jr. had a unique 
impact on civil rights in the twentieth century. 

[Indic > Gk > L > It > F] adj (278-1) sparkling with luster : 
very bright. 

Silvia was mesmerized by the brilliant diamond bracelet in the 
advertisement. 

[Latin] adj (1589-1) occurring or encountered in the usual 
course of events : not uncommon or exceptional. 

The artist had a knack for taking ordinary objects and turning 
them into works of art. 

The following word is a homonym. Inform speller that this word is a homonym and provide, 
without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 

32. column \ SkBlEm \ [L > F > E] n (451-1) [has homonym: collum] one of a 
[other pronunciation(s) building’s vertical supporting members. 
may exist] A column supporting the balcony showed signs of termite 
infestation. 

page 13 
Words Selected from Spelling Curricula 


33. appreciate \ ESprGshGTCt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

34. suffice \ sESfIs \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

35. guardian \ SgBrdGEn \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

36. obligation \ TBblESgCshEn \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

37. recipe \ SresE(T)pG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

38. geographical \ TjGESgrafDkEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

39. sinister \ SsinDst(E)r \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

40. campaign \ kamSpCn \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

41. autobiography \ TOZETbISBgrEfG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Latin] v (105-3) esteem highly and express thanks or gratitude 
for. 

Most students appreciate the efforts of their teachers. 

[Latin] v (2284-3) be enough : meet or satisfy a need. 

One teaspoonful of salt will suffice for the stew. 

[F > AF > E] n (1007-2) one to whom a person or thing is 
committed for protection, security, or preservation. 

Before performing surgery on a minor, the doctor needs the 
consent of a parent or legal guardian. 

[Latin] n (1556-2) something that one is bound to do : an 
imperative duty. 

Because of Carra’s past assistance, Craig felt an obligation to 
return the favor. 

[Latin] n (1895-2) a list of ingredients and a statement of the 
procedure to be followed in making an item of food or drink. 

Chuck’s chili recipe is a closely guarded secret. 

[Gk > L] adj (948-3) belonging to or characteristic of a 
particular region. 

Paula extols the geographical marvels of France to anyone who 
will listen. 

[Latin] adj (2125-1) evil or productive of evil : bad : 
corruptive. 

Emotions long repressed sometimes find sinister outlets. 

[Latin geographical name > OProv? > F] n (322-3) a period of 
activity usually continuous and often competitive especially in 
any seasonal occupation or industry. 

The football team triumphantly ended its ambitious campaign to 
win the state championship. 

[Gk + Gk + Gk] n (147-1) a usually written history of a 
person’s life narrated by that person. 

Kalpana enjoyed reading Gandhi’s autobiography. 

The following word is a homonym. Inform speller that this word is a homonym and provide, 
without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 

42. tortoise \ StOrZEs \ [F? > E] n (2413-3) [has homonym: tortas] a reptile being 
[other pronunciation(s) distinguished by a trunk more or less enclosed in a shell of bony 
may exist] dermal plates and in nearly all cases firmly united with some of 
the vertebrae, ribs, and sternum : a turtle.used especially of 
terrestrial forms. 
A tortoise takes about five hours to walk one mile. 

page 14 
Words Selected from Spelling Curricula 


43. infomercial \ Sin(T)fPTmErshEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

44. precious \ SpreshEs \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
45. humidity \ hyVSmidEZG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
46. exhibit \ igSzibDt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
47. frolicking \ SfrBlikGN \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
48. awkward \ SOkwE(r)d \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
49. mountainous \ SmaUnt(F)nEs \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
50. barnacled \ SbBrnDkEld \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[L > F + L > F] n (98a-2) a television program that is an 
extended advertisement often including a discussion or 
demonstration. 

Uncle Bill still likes to imitate the infomercial for kitchen knives 
he first saw in 1989. 

[L > F] adj (1784-2) of great value or high price: as of such 
extreme value that a suitable price is hard to estimate. 

The museum displayed precious objects made of gold, silver, and 
ivory. 

[L > F > E] n (1101-3) a moderate degree of wetness (as of a 
solid surface or the air) perceptible to the eye or to touch. 

The hikers had to deal with pesky mosquitoes in addition to the 
heat and humidity. 

[Latin] n (796-1) a public show or showing : a display. 

Jen and Molly went to the exhibit of Mexican folk art at the 
county museum. 

[D + Ecf] v (913-2) moving with marked liveliness : playing 
about happily. 

Buster and Donna were frolicking in the meadow with the 
puppies. 

[ON > E + E] adj (152-3) lacking dexterity or skill especially 
in the use of the hands or of instruments : clumsy. 

Linda’s mother assured her that using a thimble while sewing 
would become less awkward with experience. 

[L > F] adj (1477-3) characterized by high landmasses 
culminating in several peaks or forming an elongated ridge. 

The mountainous scenery gradually gave way to sandy foothills 
followed by flat desert. 

[Celt > E] adj (177-3) covered with any of numerous marine 
crustaceans that are free-swimming in the larval state but 
permanently attached as adults. 

The divers wanted to get a close look at the barnacled hull of the 
sunken ship. 

page 15 
Words Selected from Spelling Curricula 


Words 51–75 are selected from language categories of 
2008 Spell It! at www.myspellit.com. 

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. 


51. alligator \ SalDTgCZE(r) \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

52. giraffe \ jESraf \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

53. zenith \ SzGnDth \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

54. cauliflower \ SkOlETflaU(E)r \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

55. hazard \ ShazE(r)d \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

56. ballerina \ TbalESrGnE \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

57. dissect \ dDSsekt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[L > Sp] n (56-2) either of two animals having a hard 
protective case comprising the genus Alligator and having a 
broad head not tapering to the snout and being in general much 
more sluggish than the typical crocodiles. 

The tour guide moved the airboat closer to where he had spotted 
an alligator. 

[Ar > It] n (958-3) a large fleet African ruminant mammal that 
is the tallest of living quadrupeds and has a very long rather stiff 
neck and a short coat of fawn or cream-colored hair marked with 
large reddish or brown blotches. 

Each giraffe has a unique pattern of coat markings that 
distinguishes it from all other giraffes. 

[Ar > Sp > L > F > E] n (2657-2) the point of culmination : 
the greatest height. 

Winning the Faculty Award was the zenith of Stephanie’s college 
career. 

[L > It] n (355-3) a garden plant that is closely related to the 
cabbage and is grown for its edible head of greatly modified and 
compacted white or purplish undeveloped flowers. 

Sam won’t eat cauliflower unless it is smothered in melted cheese. 

[Ar > F > E] n (1041-2) a possible source of peril, danger, 
duress, or difficulty. 

The dense fog was a hazard to air travel. 

[L > It] n (167-2) a female ballet dancer. 

Although the ballerina seemed a bit nervous before her 
performance, her dancing was faultless. 

[Latin] v (656-2) cut so as to separate into pieces or to expose 
the several parts and their locations and connections especially 
with precision and deftness for scientific examination. 

Mr. Fitzgerald announced that the biology class would dissect 
frogs next week. 

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 Webster’s 
Third New International Dictionary for further information or skip the word. 
It is possible that we did not note the fact that the word is a homonym. 


page 16 
Words Selected from 2008 Spell It! 


58. cafeteria \ TkafEStirGE \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

59. trauma \ StraUmE \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

60. mohair \ SmPTha(E)r \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

61. interrupt \ TintESrEpt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

62. stucco \ SstE(T)kP \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

63. gorgeous \ SgOrjEs \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

64. alleviate \ ESlGvGTCt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Turk > Sp] n (313-1) a self-service restaurant or lunchroom. 

Jeremy was suspended for starting a food fight in the cafeteria. 

[Greek] n (2432-3) a psychological or emotional stress or blow 
that may produce disordered feelings or behavior. 

Haley could barely begin to understand the trauma experienced 
by families displaced by Hurricane Katrina. 

[Ar > It > E] n (1453-2) any of various fabrics or yarns made 
wholly or in part of the hair of the Angora goat. 

For her birthday Linda got a matching scarf and sweater made 
of mohair. 

[Latin] v (1182-3) break in with questions or remarks while 
another is speaking. 

“Why do you always interrupt like that?” asked Mr. Kelley. 

[Gmc > It] n (2268-1) a fine plaster of high quality used in the 
decoration and ornamentation of interior walls. 

The architect recommended covering the walls with stucco. 

[F > E] adj (980-3) characterized by brilliance or magnificence 
of any kind. 

The gorgeous parade floats were bedecked in flowers. 

[Latin] v (56-1) lighten : lessen : relieve. 

Sleeping on a firm mattress will often alleviate minor back pain. 

As you near the end of this section, compare the number of words that remain with the number of spellers 
still standing. Begin a new round in this section only if the number of words remaining is greater than 
the number of spellers still standing. Move to the next section of words if this criterion is not met. 

65. biopsy \ SbITBpsG \ [Gk > ISV] n (219-1) the removal of tissue, cells, or fluids 
[other pronunciation(s) 
from the living body for examination or study. 
may exist] 

Dr. Walsh performed a biopsy on Eliot’s mysterious lump. 

66. prairie \ SprerG \ 
[L > F] n (1781-2) a meadow or tract of grassland. 
[other pronunciation(s) 
The prairie stretched out broad and flat to the horizon in everymay exist] 

direction. 

The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


67. access \ SakTses \ [L > F > E] v (55a-1) [Note: Could be confused with excess.] 
[other pronunciation(s) 
get at : gain freedom or ability to obtain or make use of. 
may exist] 

The bank’s customers access the automatic teller machine by 
using a special card. 

page 17 
Words Selected from 2008 Spell It! 


68. homonym \ ShBmETnim \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

69. gristle \ SgrisEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

70. foyer \ SfOi(y)E(r) \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

71. crescent \ SkresFnt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

72. jovial \ SjPvGEl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

73. mesa \ SmCsE \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

74. rehearse \ rDShErs \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

75. ambulance \ SambyElEn(t)s \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Gk > L] n (1085-2) one of two or more words pronounced 
alike but different in meaning or derivation or spelling. 

A good spelling bee pronouncer will tell you if the word you are 
spelling is a homonym. 

[English] n (1001-1) tough cartilaginous, tendinous, or fibrous 
matter especially in table meats. 

Pat complained to the cook that his chicken had gristle and fat 
attached. 

[L > F] n (900-2) an anteroom or lobby especially of a theater, 
library, or other public building. 

Joanne admired the large mobile hanging from the ceiling of the 
museum’s foyer. 

[L > F > E] n (535-1) the shape or figure defined by a convex 
and a concave edge. 

The Moon’s silvery crescent disappeared as the eclipse reached 
totality. 

[L > F] adj (1222-1) characterized by or showing marked good 
humor especially as exhibited in mirth, hilarity, or conviviality. 

The jovial chef made cooking look easy and enjoyable. 

[L > Sp] n (1415-3) a usually isolated hill or mountain having 
abrupt or steeply sloping sides and a level top. 

Twenty-four tribes claim spiritual ties to the mesa that soars 
some 700 feet above southwestern Colorado’s surrounding 
lowlands. 

[OScan? > L > F > E] v (1914-1) practice or go through (as a 
play, scene, or part) in private in preparation for a more formal 
and public presentation. 

The actors will rehearse the play every Tuesday and Thursday 
evening for the next four weeks. 

[Latin] n (67-2) a vehicle equipped for transporting wounded, 
injured, or sick persons or animals. 

The local rescue squad held a fund raiser for the purchase of a 
new ambulance. 

page 18 
Words Selected from 2008 Spell It! 


Words 76–100 are selected from the “Words You Need to Know” list at www.myspellit.com. 

The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


76. effect \ DSfekt \ 
[L > F > E] n (724-2) [has homonym: affect] something that is 
[other pronunciation(s) 
produced by an agent or cause : a result : an outcome. 
may exist] 

The music of Bartok has a strangely calming effect on Troy’s pet 
rottweiler. 

The following word is a homonym. Inform speller that this word is a homonym and provide, 
without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 

77. receipt \ rDSsGt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

78. allot \ ESlBt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

79. schedule \ Sske(T)jVl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

80. grammar \ SgramE(r) \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[L > F > E] n (1894-1) [Note: Alternate pronunciation has 
homonym reseat.] a writing acknowledging the taking or 
accepting of goods or money delivered or paid. 

The store will give a complete refund within 30 days if a cash 
register receipt accompanies the returned item. 

[(Gmc + L) > F > E] v (57-3) assign as a share or portion to a 
particular person or thing or for a particular purpose. 

When the supervisor makes the schedule, she will allot each 
employee time for a morning break. 

[Gk? > L > F] v (2028-3) appoint, assign, or designate to do or 
receive something at a fixed time in the future. 

The teacher will schedule one day each month to celebrate the 
birthdays of all the students whose birthdays fall within that 
month. 

[Gk > L > F > E] n (986-3) a branch of linguistic study that 
deals with the classes of words, their means of indicating relation 
to each other, and their functions in the sentence as employed 
according to established usage. 

Mrs. Cates makes sure that her students can define the eight parts 
of speech before she progresses to other aspects of grammar. 

The following word is a homonym. Inform speller that this word is a homonym and provide, 
without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 

81. kernel \ SkErnFl \ [English] n (1238-1) [has homonym: colonel] a central or 
[other pronunciation(s) 
essential part. 
may exist] 

A sense of wonder is the kernel around which a good education 
is built. 

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. 


page 19 
Words Selected from “Words You Need to Know” 


The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


82. desert \ dDSzErt \ [L > F > E] v (610-3) [has homonym: dessert] withdraw from 
[other pronunciation(s) 
or leave permanently or less often temporarily (as a place) : quit. 
may exist] 

At the first rumble of thunder, many sunbathers usually head for 
their cars and desert the beach. 

The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


83. coarse \ SkP(E)rs \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
[English] adj (432-3) [has homonym: course] of crude, 
unskilled, or careless workmanship or design. 
Modern coarse imitations lack the original fineness of authentic 
Navajo rugs. 
84. familiar \ fESmilyE(r) \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 
[L > F > E] adj (820-2) well acquainted through personal 
knowledge or study. 
Sandy has been chosen for the job because she is familiar with 
computers. 

The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


85. proceed \ prPSsGd \ [L > F > E] v (1807-3) [Note: Could be confused with 
[other pronunciation(s) 
precede.] go on with one’s movement or traveling : go forward 
may exist] on one’s way : make one’s way forward. 

When the announcement is given, students will proceed from 
their classroom to the nearest exit door. 

The following word is a homonym. Inform speller that this word is a homonym and provide, 
without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 

86. rite \ SrIt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

87. apparent \ ESparEnt \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[L > E] n (1961-3) [has homonyms: right, wright, write] 
a ceremonial act or action or series of such acts especially in 
established religious usage, in tribal custom, or occasionally in 
bizarre practices or unduly formalized conduct in ordinary life. 

Her fellow campers watched in wonder as Hortense ended her 
long daily rite of oral hygiene with vigorous flossing. 

[L > F > E] adj (102-3) readily perceptible to the senses, 
especially sight. 

The skyline became apparent once the fog lifted. 

page 20 
Words Selected from “Words You Need to Know” 


The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


88. stationary \ SstCshETnerG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

89. maintenance \ SmCnt(E)nEn(t)s \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

90. exceed \ ikSsGd \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Latin] adj (2229-3) [has homonym: stationery] fixed in a 
place, position, course, or mode. 

The clerk calmly remained in a stationary position. 

[French] n (1362-3) the labor of keeping something (as 
buildings or equipment) in a state of repair or efficiency : 
upkeep. 

Excellent maintenance preserved the original gingerbread trim 
on the Victorian house. 

[L > F > E] v (791-2) [Note: Alternate pronunciation has near 
homonym accede.] be greater than or superior to : surpass. 

Fred's detailed explanations often exceed the attention span of 
his listeners. 

The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


91. capitol \ SkapEZFl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

92. debt \ Sdet \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[Latin] n (332-2) [has homonym: capital] the building in 
which a legislative body meets. 

The tourists admired the gleaming dome of the state capitol. 

[L > F > E] n (583-1) something (as money, goods, or services) 
owed by one person to another. 

Once Adrian had cleaned up the entire picnic area, he 
considered his debt to society paid. 

The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


93. council \ SkaUn(t)sDl \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

94. sincerely \ sinSsi(E)rlG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[L > F > E] n (518-1) [has homonym: counsel] a somewhat 
permanent group elected or appointed to constitute an advisory 
body or a body with a degree of legislative power. 

Ellen hoped her classmates would elect her to be the president of 
the student council. 

[L + Ecf] adv (2122-3) in a manner marked by genuineness. 

Tom sincerely voiced profound remorse for how his actions had 
hurt his friends. 

page 21 
Words Selected from “Words You Need to Know” 


The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


95. illusion \ DSlVzhEn \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

96. sheriff \ SsherDf \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

97. recommend \ TrekESmend \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

98. secretary \ SsekrETterG \ 
[other pronunciation(s) 
may exist] 

[L > F > E] n (1127-2) [has homonym: allusion] perception 
of something objectively existing in such a way as to cause or 
permit misinterpreation of its actual nature. 

The magician created the illusion of making a school bus 
disappear. 

[English] n (2094-1) 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, Josie tried to got out of 
the jurisdiction of the sheriff who was tailing his car. 

[Latin] v (1897-1) mention or introduce as being worthy of 
acceptance, use, or trial. 

Many dentists will not recommend only one brand of toothpaste 
to buy. 

[Latin] n (2052-2) an officer of an organization or society 
responsible for its records and correspondence. 

Jenna’s father is secretary of the administrative board of her 
preschool. 

The following word is a homonym that is often misused. 
To avoid a misunderstanding, inform speller that this word is a homonym. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


99. rote \ SrPt \ 
[Gmc > F > E] n (1977-1) [has homonym: wrote] the use of 
[other pronunciation(s) 
the memory usually with little intelligence. 
may exist] 

Trevor recited for the customers all 47 flavors of ice cream by 
rote. 

The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling. 
Provide, without being asked by the speller to do so, the word’s part of speech and definition. 


100. liable \ SlIEbEl \ [L > F] adj (1302-2) [Note: Alternate pronunciation has 
[other pronunciation(s) 
homonym libel.] bound or obligated according to law or equity : 
may exist] responsible : answerable. 

Under the laws of many states, parents of minors are liable for 
damage their children do to the property of others. 

page 22 
Words Selected from “Words You Need to Know” 


A 

access – 67. 
accident – 10. 
aliens – 23. 
alleviate – 64. 
alligator – 51. 
allot – 78. 
allowance – 27. 
ambulance – 75. 
ancient – 21. 
apparent – 87. 
appreciate – 33. 
autobiography – 41. 
awkward – 48. 

B 

ballerina – 56. 
barnacled – 50. 
biopsy – 65. 
brilliant – 30. 

cafeteria – 58. 
campaign – 40. 
capitol – 91. 
cauliflower – 54. 
celebrate – 4. 
changeable – 28. 
clumsiness – 8. 
coarse – 83. 
column – 32. 
continue – 11. 
council – 93. 
crescent – 71. 
cruelty – 18. 

D 

debt – 92. 
delicious – 13. 
desert – 82. 
design – 1. 
dissect – 57. 

E 

effect – 76. 
exceed – 90. 
exhibit – 46. 

F 

fable – 14. 
familiar – 84. 
fossil – 12. 
foyer – 70. 
frolicking – 47. 
furniture – 20. 

G 

geographical – 38. 
giraffe – 52. 
gorgeous – 63. 
grammar – 80. 
gristle – 69. 
grocery – 24. 
guardian – 35. 

H 

hazard – 55. 
homonym – 68. 
humidity – 45. 

I 

illusion – 95. 
infomercial – 43. 
interrupt – 61. 

J 

janitor – 15. 
jovial – 72. 
kernel – 81. 

L 

liable – 100. 
loyalty – 6. 

M 

maintenance – 89. 
mesa – 73. 
mohair – 60. 
moisture – 5. 
mountainous – 49. 

N 

nephew – 3. 

O 

obligation – 36. 
ordinary – 31. 
ornament – 7. 

P 

popular – 9. 
prairie – 66. 
precious – 44. 
proceed – 85. 
profit – 19. 

R 

receipt – 77. 
recipe – 37. 
recommend – 97. 
rehearse – 74. 
rigid – 22. 

rite – 86. 
rote – 99. 

S 

schedule – 79. 
scribble – 2. 
secretary – 98. 
sheriff – 96. 
sincerely – 94. 
sinister – 39. 
smear – 16. 
stationary – 88. 
stucco – 62. 
suffice – 34. 

T 

tortoise – 42. 
trauma – 59. 

U 

unique – 29. 
unpleasant – 26. 

V 

velvet – 25. 

W 

wisdom – 17. 

Z 

zenith – 53. 

page 23 
Alphabetical Index 


1. design 26. unpleasant 51. alligator 76. effect 
2. scribble 27. allowance 52. giraffe 77. receipt 
3. nephew 28. changeable 53. zenith 78. allot 
4. celebrate 29. unique 54. cauliflower 79. schedule 
5. moisture 30. brilliant 55. hazard 80. grammar 
6. loyalty 31. ordinary 56. ballerina 81. kernel 
7. ornament 32. column 57. dissect 82. desert 
8. clumsiness 33. appreciate 58. cafeteria 83. coarse 
9. popular 34. suffice 59. trauma 84. familiar 
10. accident 35. guardian 60. mohair 85. proceed 
11. continue 36. obligation 61. interrupt 86. rite 
12. fossil 37. recipe 62. stucco 87. apparent 
13. delicious 38. geographical 63. gorgeous 88. stationary 
14. fable 39. sinister 64. alleviate 89. maintenance 
15. janitor 40. campaign 65. biopsy 90. exceed 
16. smear 41. autobiography 66. prairie 91. capitol 
17. wisdom 42. tortoise 67. access 92. debt 
18. cruelty 43. infomercial 68. homonym 93. council 
19. profit 44. precious 69. gristle 94. sincerely 
20. furniture 45. humidity 70. foyer 95. illusion 
21. ancient 46. exhibit 71. crescent 96. sheriff 
22. rigid 47. frolicking 72. jovial 97. recommend 
23. aliens 48. awkward 73. mesa 98. secretary 
24. grocery 49. mountainous 74. rehearse 99. rote 
25. velvet 50. barnacled 75. ambulance 100. liable 

page 24 
Numerical Index