2012
CLASSROOM PRONOUNCER GUIDE
CONTENTS
Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols ................................................................................ 2
Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation .......................................................................................... 3
Tips for Conducting Your Classroom Spelling Bee .................................................................... 4
Rules for Local Spelling Bees .......................................................................................................5
Words 1–225: 2012 School Spelling Bee Study List Words.......................................................10
Words 226-250: Words Selected from Webster’s Third* ......................................................... 38
Alphabetical Index .....................................................................................................................41
Numerical Index ....................................................................................................................... 43
*Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster
©2011, 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
Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation
Pronunciation
For many words in Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster (Webster’s
Third), more than one pronunciation is offered. In this classroom pronouncer guide, the chief pronunciation for a
word is most often the first pronunciation given in this dictionary. Occasionally, however, the word panel has
chosen to assign the dictionary’s second or third pronunciation as the chief pronunciation. This decision has been
made whenever the panel has reason to think that a certain pronunciation has become the most prevalent one since
this dictionary was first published.
Many of the variations in pronunciation listed in Webster’s Third are included in this publication as alternate
pronunciations and are listed in square brackets under the chief pronunciation. These alternate pronunciations
are all the variants in the dictionary’s pronunciation data that differ phonemically from the chief pronunciation.
Minor phonetic variations that are described in the dictionary pages are not included here, however, such as
pronunciations that differ only in the level of stress on given syllables. In addition, this publication has not
included the voluminous treatment of r-dropping and vowel variations before /r/ such as those that are found in
certain geographical dialects of American English. Experience has shown that this information about nuances of
phonetic variation in pronunciation can be the cause for confusion for spellers and pronouncers alike.
Nevertheless, every pronunciation in Webster’s Third that can offer any clues about spelling is listed as an
alternate pronunciation herein. The phrase no alternate pronunciations means simply that, while the dictionary
entry may or may not contain further details about phonetic differences in different dialects, the word in question
has no other pronunciations that differ phonemically from the chief pronunciation that is provided.
page 3
Guidelines Regarding Pronunciation
Tips for Conducting Your Classroom Spelling Bee
Help your students prepare by:
•
giving your students the grade-specific 100-word study list from the log-in section of spellingbee.com, and
•
providing the full 2012 School Spelling Bee Study List to your students if they seek a challenge.
Become familiar with the organization of this guide, in which:
•
words 1-225 were selected from the 2012 School Spelling Bee Study List and
•
words 226-250 were selected from were selected from Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, copyright
2002, Merriam-Webster.
Decide at what point in this guide to begin your classroom bee. We recommend that you:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
begin Grade 1 classroom spelling bees with word 1 (page 10),
begin Grade 2 classroom spelling bees with word 26 (page 13),
begin Grade 3 classroom spelling bees with word 51 (page 16),
begin Grade 4 classroom spelling bees with word 76 (page 19),
begin Grade 5 classroom spelling bees with word 101 (page 22),
begin Grade 6 classroom spelling bees with word 126 (page 25),
begin Grade 7 classroom spelling bees with word 151 (page 28), and
begin Grade 8 classroom spelling bees with word 176 (page 31).
As pronouncer, be sure to:
•
review the words on this list prior to your bee, and
•
refer to the Merriam-Webster Pronunciation Symbols (page 2) if you need assistance interpreting diacritical
markings.
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. If you do not have a copy of Webster’s Third, the preferred alternative is MerriamWebster’s Collegiate Dictionary, eleventh edition, copyright 2003, Merriam-Webster.
Resources
•
•
•
Webster’s Third New International Dictionary, copyright 2002, Merriam-Webster
Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, eleventh edition, copyright 2003, Merriam-Webster
Log-in section of spellingbee.com:
o Grade-specific study lists
o 2012 School Spelling Bee Study List
page 4
Tips for Conducting Your Classroom Spelling Bee
Rules for Local Spelling Bees
Preface
We encourage spellers, parents, teachers, and spelling bee officials to read these rules prior to any spelling bee.
These rules are guidelines designed to assist spelling bee officials and spellers at the local level. Spellers should check with
their local spelling bee officials for the rules in effect in their area. Spelling bee officials include the pronouncer, judges,
coordinator, and sponsor.
While local spelling bee officials have the prerogative to amend Rules 2 through 11, 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 the Washington, D.C. area). 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. area.
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 the Washington, D.C. area operates under a significantly different set of rules called
the Contest Rules of the 2012 Scripps National Spelling Bee. These rules contain provisions that are specific to unique
conditions at the event in the Washington, D.C. area. Their successful implementation at the local level is considered
impossible and therefore is not recommended.
Rules
1. Eligibility: A speller qualifying for the 2012 Scripps
National Spelling Bee in the Washington, D.C. area must
meet these requirements:
(1) The speller must not have won a Scripps National
Spelling Bee championship in the Washington, D.C.
area.
(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, 2012.
(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 23, 2012; and the Scripps National Spelling
Bee will, at its sole discretion, determine the speller’s
eligibility status on or before April 30, 2012.
(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,
2012.
(8) The speller must not eschew normal school
activity to study for spelling bees. The Scripps
National Spelling Bee defines normal school activity
as adherence to at least four courses of study other
than language arts, spelling, Latin, Greek,
vocabulary, and etymology for at least four hours per
weekday for 34 of the 38 weeks between August 30,
2011, and May 21, 2012.
page 5
Rules for Local Spelling Bees
(9) The speller must not have reached his/her 15th
birthday on or before August 31, 2011.
(10) The speller must have won a final local spelling
bee on or after February 1, 2012.
(11) Once having been disqualified at any level of a
sponsor’s spelling bee program between June 2011
and April 2012, the speller remains disqualified for
the 2012 Scripps National Spelling Bee and may not
seek advancement in the 2012 Scripps National
Spelling Bee program through another sponsor
and/or enrollment in another school.
(12) The speller, upon qualifying for the 2012
Scripps National Spelling Bee in the Washington,
D.C. area, 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 27, 2012. 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 2012
Scripps National Spelling Bee and April 30, 2013—
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 2012 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 the School Spelling Bee Study List, many
words that appear in the current edition of Spell It! as well
as some “end-of-bee” words. All words on Scripps
National Spelling Bee word lists are entries in 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, MerriamWebster or Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate
Dictionary, eleventh edition. The pronouncer does
not entertain root word questions, requests for
alternate definitions, or requests for markedly slower
pronunciation.
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 2012 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.
page 6
Rules for Local Spelling Bees
Notice of rules: The judges ensure that all spellers
and audience members are given an opportunity to
receive a complete copy of the rules prior to the start
of the spelling bee.
Misunderstandings: The judges participate in the
exchange of information between the speller and
pronouncer if they feel that clarification is needed.
Also, the judges listen carefully to the 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.
page 7
Rules for Local Spelling Bees
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
page 8
Rules for Local Spelling Bees
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.
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 1–225 are Scripps National Spelling Bee School Level Study Words.
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 1 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
crate
\ SkrCt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
2.
large
\ SlBrj \
[ \ SlAj \ ]
3.
salt
\ SsOlt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a container used to transport wares.
Hal cut a hole in the side of a shipping crate and used it as a
doghouse.
adjective
exceeding most other things of like kind in bulk, capacity,
quantity, superficial dimensions, or number of constituent units.
Compared to saddle horses, Belgians and Clydesdales are quite
large.
noun
any of a class of compounds typified by sodium chloride that are
derived from acids by replacement of part or all of the acid
hydrogen by a metal or radical acting like a metal.
Before taking chemistry, Tak thought that all salt was the same.
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.
4.
tack
\ Stak \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
5.
cub
\ SkEb \
[ \ SkUb \ ]
6.
gasp
\ Sgasp \
[ \ Sgaa(E)sp, Sgaisp, SgAsp \ ]
7.
strong
\ SstrON \
[ \ SstrBN \ ]
verb
nail, pin, or affix with small sharp-pointed, broad-headed nails.
The landlady told Tristan that renters who tack anything to the
wall risk losing part of their security deposit.
noun
a young person; especially : an awkward or ill-mannered boy.
Mr. Downes called every student that passed through his
classroom a “young cub.”
noun
catch the breath convulsively and audibly.
Mary caught her breath in a short gasp and felt herself turn
pale.
adjective
having great muscular power.
Johnny is as strong as a bull.
page 10
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
8.
cram
\ Skram \
[ \ Skraa(E)m \ ]
9.
file
\ SfIl \
[ \ SfIEl \ ]
10.
rake
\ SrCk \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
11.
mess
\ Smes \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
12.
study
\ SstEdG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
13.
even
\ SGvEn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
14.
scan
\ Sskan \
[ \ Sskaa(E)n \ ]
15.
dare
\ Sda(E)r \
[ \ Sde(E)r, SdE(E)r \ ]
16.
brace
\ SbrCs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
verb
study intensively or under pressure especially for an
examination.
Sarah wonders if students who cram the night before major tests
truly retain the material.
noun
a hardened steel tool that has cutting ridges and is used for
forming or smoothing surfaces.
The file slowly smoothed the burrs off the metal bar’s edge.
noun
a hand tool used for gathering leaves, grass, or other material, or
for loosening or smoothing the surface of the ground.
Vera told her son never to leave a rake with its teeth pointed
upward.
noun [The definition provided is not the one most commonly
associated with this word.]
sufficient quantity (of a specified kind of food) for a dish or a
meal.
Janie went out to the garden and picked a mess of green beans
for supper.
verb
apply the mind to the acquirement of knowledge.
Flora and her roommate agreed that they would study for the
exam together.
adjective
being any member of a sequence of positive integers beginning
with two and counting by twos : being always exactly divisible by
two.
When an even number is multiplied by either an even number or
an odd number, the result is always an even number.
verb
look through or over hastily.
Students who scan their notes for a few minutes before a test
sometimes have less text anxiety than they would otherwise have.
verb
be sufficiently bold, brave, or courageous to.
None of the members of the cruise party dare to deny the merits
of the ship.
noun
a crank-shaped instrument with handles and a chuck for holding
and turning auger bits.
Gerald bore a hole in the metal sheet with a brace.
page 11
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
17.
trunk
\ StrENk \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
18.
proud
\ SpraUd \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
19.
shine
\ SshIn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
20.
twice
\ StwIs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
21.
ballroom
\ SbOlTrVm \
[ \ SbOlTrUm \ ]
22.
cakewalk
\ SkCkTwOk \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
23.
grapevine
\ SgrCpTvIn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
24.
homework
\ ShPmTwErk \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
25.
locker
\ SlBkE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a piece of luggage that has a rigid frame and is too large for
being carried by hand.
Riannon’s trunk survived the trip in one piece.
adjective
highly satisfied or pleased : elated.
Mike was proud to be a member of the municipal police force.
verb
emit rays of light.
In the mountains the stars shine brighter than they ever do in the
city.
adverb
for a first and second time : on two occasions.
After Reginald wrecked the car twice, his parents took his
driving privileges away for three months.
noun
a large room for dances.
Karin’s birthday party was held in the ballroom of the Plaza
Hotel.
noun
a stage dance developed from walking steps, especially a highstepping prance with a backward tilt.
The cakewalk was originally performed in competitions where
the prize was a cake.
noun
a sidewise waltz step in which one foot keeps crossing first
before and then behind the other.
The grapevine migrated into ballroom dancing from folk
dancing.
noun
preparatory reading or research.
Steve had to do quite a bit of homework before he could make
an effective presentation on his assigned topic.
noun
a container used for safekeeping or storage.
Thun kept all his belongings in the locker at the foot of his bed.
page 12
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 2 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
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.
26.
muse
\ SmyVz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
verb [has homonyms: meuse, mews]
become absorbed in thought.
In the opening scene of the movie, the two best friends sit on the
beach and muse on what they will do with their lives.
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.
27.
cherry
\ ScherG \
[ \ Scheri \ ]
28.
tongs
\ StBNz \
[ \ StONz \ ]
adjective [has homonym: chary]
of a variable color averaging a moderate red that has a hint of
yellow.
Santa is often portrayed with cherry cheeks.
plural noun
an instrument for taking hold of objects for ease and
convenience of handling.
Wendi could not find the tongs, so she turned the frankfurters
with a fork.
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.
29.
batter
\ SbaZE(r) \
[ \ SbatEr \ ]
30.
drawer
\ SdrOr \
[ \ SdrOEr \ ]
noun [has homonym: badder]
a mixture (as for cake or waffles) that consists of flour, liquid,
and other ingredients and is thin enough to pour or drop from a
spoon.
Gordon mixed batter for waffles while Julie sliced fruit and
made bacon.
noun
a sliding box or receptacle that is opened by pulling out and
closed by pushing in.
Shaq checked every drawer in the kitchen until he found the
silverware.
page 13
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
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.
31.
tough
\ StEf \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
32.
bagpipe
\ SbagTpIp \
[ \ Sbaa(E)gTpIp, SbaigTpIp \ ]
33.
stern
\ SstErn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
34.
hamper
\ ShampE(r) \
[ \ ShaampE(r), ShaimpEr \ ]
35.
gravy
\ SgrCvG \
[ \ SgrCvi \ ]
36.
firefly
\ SfIrTflI \
[ \ SfIErTflI \ ]
37.
handcuffs
\ ShandTkEfs \
[ \ Shaa(E)ndTkEfs \ ]
38.
frugal
\ SfrVgEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
39.
pitcher
\ SpichE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
adjective [has homonym: tuff]
extremely difficult to cope with or comprehend.
The questions on the final exam were so tough that only the
well-prepared students got a passing grade.
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.
adjective
having a serious and strict manner.
Darryl always looks more stern when he wears glasses.
noun
a basket or box with a cover for packing, storing, or transporting
food and other articles.
Liz put the hamper next to the others in the back of the van.
noun
any of several thickened sauces served especially with meat or
potatoes.
The so-called “red-eye” gravy often served with ham and
biscuits is usually made with strong coffee or cola.
noun
a winged nocturnal insect usually producing a bright soft
intermittent light.
When the light of the captured firefly started to dim, Nell
decided it was time to set the bug free.
plural noun
metal fastenings that can be locked around the wrists and are
usually connected by a chain or bar.
The convicted felon was taken to prison in handcuffs.
adjective
economical in the use or expenditure of resources : not wasteful.
The “Golden Fleece Award” was created by Senator William
Proxmire, who sought to make the federal government more
frugal.
noun
a container for holding and pouring out liquids.
The hand-blown glass pitcher was too fragile to be used for
pouring, so Aunt Beth used it as a vase instead.
page 14
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
40.
windchill
\ SwindTchil \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
41.
crutch
\ SkrEch \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
42.
ginger
\ SjinjE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
43.
chowder
\ SchaUdE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
44.
drifting
\ SdriftiN \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
45.
fleet
\ SflGt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
46.
solve
\ SsBlv \
[ \ SsOlv \ ]
47.
nibble
\ SnibEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
48.
sunflower
\ SsEnTflaU(E)r \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a still-air temperature with the same cooling effect on exposed
human flesh as a given combination of temperature and wind
speed.
Winds ripped the air at 60 miles an hour, and the windchill
dropped to 50 degrees below zero.
noun
a support to aid the disabled in walking.
Under the left shoulder he carried a crutch, which he managed
with wonderful dexterity, hopping about upon it like a bird.
adjective
having the reddish brown color of the spice ginger.
Mrs. Collins would die if anyone knew that her ginger hair is
actually gray.
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.
Dean and Susan went to the beach to collect clams for chowder.
adjective
disposed to move aimlessly.
Drifting loners were rounded up as suspects after the shooting.
noun
a number of warships under a single command : a naval force.
Naval Intelligence learned that terrorists were noting
information about the movement of the fleet.
verb
find an answer, solution, or explanation for.
The algebra teacher says that students who solve five of the
word problems within ten minutes will get a homework pass.
verb
bite lightly.
Deer nibble on the leaves of plants.
adjective
of or resembling any of various plants with large yellow-rayed
flower heads bearing edible seeds that yield an edible oil.
The brown iris was slashed with yellow, the color of sunflower
honey.
page 15
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
49.
clinic
\ Sklinik \
[ \ SklinGk \ ]
50.
chapter
\ SchaptE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a form of group practice in which several physicians work in
cooperative association.
Sondra took the baby to the pediatric clinic for a checkup.
noun
a main division of a book usually beginning on a new page.
Jill begged for permission to finish reading the chapter before
going to bed.
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 3 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
pudding
\ SpUdiN \
[ \ SpUdGN \ ]
52.
herbs
\ Serbz \
[ \ Sherbz \ ]
53.
apron
\ SCprEn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a usually boiled or baked sweetened dessert of a soft, spongy, or
thick creamy consistency.
After Gage had his wisdom teeth removed, he ate only rice
pudding and milkshakes for three days.
plural noun
plants or plant parts valued for their medicinal, savory, or
aromatic qualities.
Karl guarded carefully the secret of which herbs he put in his
barbecue sauce.
noun
an article made of cloth or other material usually worn on the
front of the body and tied around the waist with strings and used
to protect the clothing, to cover the body, or to adorn a costume.
Mrs. Hobbs wears her special red and green plaid apron only
when she is cooking her Christmas Day dinner.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
54.
jewel
\ SjVEl \
[ \ SjUEl \ ]
55.
scramble
\ SskrambEl \
[ \ SskraambEl \ ]
noun [has near homonym: joule]
a precious stone; especially : a stone cut and polished for use as
an ornament.
The Hope Diamond is a famous jewel thought to be unlucky.
verb
prepare (eggs) by stirring during frying.
After she burned the meatloaf, Arlene said she would scramble
some eggs for dinner.
page 16
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
56.
beaming
\ SbGmiN \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
57.
kitchen
\ SkichDn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
58.
wreck
\ Srek \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
59.
cusp
\ SkEsp \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
60.
wooden
\ SwUdFn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
61.
garnish
\ SgBrnish \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
62.
wizard
\ SwizErd \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
63.
keyhole
\ SkGThPl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
64.
grumpy
\ SgrEmpG \
[ \ SgrEmpi \ ]
65.
harmless
\ ShBrmlDs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
adjective
marked by or expressive of extreme and unreserved joy,
happiness, or satisfaction.
The beaming actress thanked the audience profusely for
applauding.
noun
a room or some other space (as a wall area or separate building)
with facilities for cooking : a place for preparing meals.
Joey spent several hours in the kitchen on Thanksgiving Day.
noun
the destruction or injury of a vessel by being cast up on shore or
on rocks or by being disabled by the force of winds or waves.
The wreck of the mail steamer Rhone occurred early in the
nineteenth century.
noun
a point or apex.
Teddy attached a bright red tassel to the cusp of the dunce cap.
adjective
made or consisting wholly or sometimes partially of the hard
fibrous substance that makes up the greater part of the stems and
branches of trees.
The auctioneer said that the huge wooden chest was made out of
just six boards.
verb
add decorative or savory touches to.
Rita will garnish the platter of smoked salmon with fresh dill.
noun
a genius or prodigy especially in a particular field of endeavor.
Jack has the reputation of being the class’s math wizard.
noun
a hole or aperture for receiving a key.
In the dark, Demmie could not find the keyhole.
adjective
moodily cross : surly : ill-humored.
The new cashier was trained in ways to deal with grumpy
customers.
adjective
lacking capacity or intent to injure.
The snake was a harmless little thing that would not hurt anyone
and seemed in a hurry to get out of the room.
page 17
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
66.
twirl
\ StwErl \
[ \ StwErEl \ ]
67.
lonely
\ SlPnlG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
verb
revolve rapidly.
Janet hopes Gregory will not twirl her too fast around the dance
floor.
adjective
being without company.
Allie took a picture of a lonely fisherman on the pier.
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.
68.
serious
\ SsirGEs \
[ \ SsGrGEs \ ]
69.
migrate
\ SmITgrCt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
70.
shovel
\ SshEvEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
71.
feeble
\ SfGbEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
72.
folly
\ SfBlG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
73.
drizzle
\ SdrizEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
74.
wombat
\ SwBmTbat \
[ \ SwOmTbat \ ]
adjective [has homonyms: cereous, Cereus]
grave in disposition, appearance, or manner.
Even the perennially serious clergyman showed some
lightheartedness at the church picnic.
verb
pass periodically from one region or climate to another for
feeding or breeding.
Some birds migrate south to find warmer weather during winter.
noun
a hand implement consisting of a broad scoop with a handle
used to lift and throw material.
Josephine bought a shovel at her neighbor’s garage sale.
adjective
markedly lacking in normal strength or endurance : weak :
debilitated.
Hal quickly realized that his grandmother was much more feeble
than she was the last time he saw her.
noun
a thoughtless act or irrational idea : an unconsidered or unwise
procedure.
Mr. Luttrell’s scheme was the despairing folly of a powerful
man who cannot bear to grow old.
noun
a fine misty rain; specifically : a light rain of very small drops.
The rain increased suddenly, pounding hollowly against the
umbrella, then just as suddenly faded back to a drizzle.
noun
any of several stocky Australian marsupials resembling small
bears.
The wombat lives in burrows, which it digs with its strong
foreclaws.
page 18
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
75.
pupil
\ SpyVpDl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a child or young person in school or in the charge of a tutor or
instructor : a student.
Every year at least one pupil in Miss Simpson’s kindergarten
class is already a skilled reader.
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 4 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
skillet
\ SskilDt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
77.
butterflies
\ SbEZErTflIz \
[ \ SbEtErTflIz \ ]
noun
a frying pan.
A high-quality deep skillet has many uses in the kitchen.
plural noun
any of several slender-bodied diurnal insects that have very large
broad wings which are often strikingly colored and patterned.
The formerly still field erupted with beautiful red butterflies.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
78.
disgust
\ dDsSgEst \
[ \ dDSskEst \ ;
nonstandard pron(s): \ dDzSgEst \ ]
79.
simmer
\ SsimE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
80.
mumble
\ SmEmbEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
81.
leftovers
\ SleftTPvE(r)z \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
verb [could be confused with discussed]
provoke (one) to loathing, repugnance, or aversion.
Even though Evelyn is a political science major, the machinations
of electoral politics disgust her.
verb
stew gently with a bubbling sound below or just at the boiling
point.
After the carrots simmer in the broth for several minutes, the
chef will add the other vegetables.
verb
make speech sounds that are hard to understand because of
minimal displacement of the speech organs from their rest
position : utter words in a low confused indistinct manner.
Children who mumble in Miss Taylor’s class are quickly told
that they should speak up.
plural noun
fragments of food remaining from a meal.
The waiter brought Elbert a container for his leftovers.
page 19
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
82.
aboard
\ ESbPrd \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
83.
mural
\ SmyUrEl \
[ \ SmyVrEl \ ]
adverb [could be confused with abort]
on, onto, or within a ship, railway car, or passenger vehicle.
Spotting dorsal fins in the distance, Jeff swam back to the
sailboat and pulled himself aboard.
adjective
applied to and made integral with a wall surface.
Mural plaques on each building on the Ile St.-Louis give
important historical facts about the buildings.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
84.
intense
\ DnStens \
[ \ DnStents \ ]
85.
relish
\ Srelish \
[ \ SrelGsh \ ]
adjective [could be confused with plural noun intents]
existing in a strained or extreme degree.
Mr. Siberell’s slight twitch was a sign of intense anxiety.
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.
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.
weigh
\ SwC \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
87.
dismal
\ SdizmEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
88.
cement
\ sDSment \
[ \ sGSment \ ;
nonstandard pron(s): \ SsGTment \ ]
89.
rascal
\ SraskEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
verb [has homonyms: way, whey]
evaluate : ponder.
Kevin is one of those people who weigh carefully the potential
consequences of their decisions.
adjective
marked by, showing, or causing gloom, dejection, somberness,
or depression of spirits.
The children who forgot their gloves spent a dismal recess
looking out the window at the snow.
verb
join, unite, or cause to adhere by or as if by means of a binding
element or agency.
After Byron chooses the tiles for his mosaic, he will cement them
in place on the pattern using a strong glue.
noun
a mean, unprincipled, or dishonest person.
The children cheered during the movie when the rascal fell to
his doom.
page 20
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
90.
twitter
\ StwiZEr \
[ \ StwitEr \ ]
91.
rabies
\ SrCbGz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
92.
wardrobe
\ SwOrTdrPb \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
93.
trio
\ StrG(T)P \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
94.
mallet
\ SmalDt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
95.
nephew
\ Sne(T)fyV \
[no alternate pronunciation(s);
nonstandard pron(s): \ Sne(T)vyV \ ]
96.
absorb
\ EbSzOrb \
[ \ EbSsOrb, abSzOrb \ ]
97.
treadmill
\ StredTmil \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
98.
kidney
\ SkidnG \
[ \ Skidni \ ]
verb
utter the successive chirping notes of a bird.
The parakeets fill the petstore with song when they twitter.
noun
an acute virus disease of warm-blooded animals that attacks
chiefly the nervous system, is fatal when untreated, and is
transmitted with infected saliva usually through the bite of an
animal affected with the disease.
Local health officials feared an outbreak of rabies after
discovering two infected raccoons in a residential area.
noun
a room or closet where clothes are kept or stored.
Henrietta screamed when her brother jumped out of the
wardrobe.
noun
a group or set of three.
Ben belongs to a well-known trio of musicians that plays for
wedding receptions.
noun
a tool with a large head for striking a surface without marring it.
Ray used a rubber mallet to put the wheel cover back in place
after he changed the flat tire.
noun
the son of a brother or sister.
Griffin took his nephew to the zoo for the afternoon.
verb
take up by various means (as by capillary, osmotic, solvent, or
chemical action).
The membranes of the intestine absorb nutrients that then pass
into the bloodstream.
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.
noun
one of a pair of vertebrate organs situated in the body cavity
near the spinal column that serve to excrete waste products.
In an effort to save his daughter’s life, the prisoner sued the
state to be allowed to give her his only kidney.
page 21
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
99.
demanding
\ dDSmandiN \
[ \ dGSmandiN, dDSmaa(E)ndiN,
dDSmAndiN \ ]
100.
caper
\ SkCpEr \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
adjective
unremittingly severe or difficult in making requests.
Although the guests were extremely demanding, Joyce enjoyed
working at the Ritz.
noun
a capricious or madcap escapade : a prank or antic.
Roberto’s little caper resulted in a three-day suspension from
school.
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 5 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
101.
journal
\ SjErnFl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
102.
cabinet
\ SkabnDt \
[ \ SkabEnDt \ ]
103.
posture
\ SpBschEr \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
104.
ransom
\ Sran(t)sEm \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
105.
talons
\ StalEnz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
106.
patriot
\ SpCtrGEt \
[ \ SpCtrGTBt \ ]
noun
a record of experiences, ideas, or reflections kept regularly for
private use.
Victoria burst into tears when she discovered that her brother
had read her journal.
noun
an upright case or cupboardlike repository.
Safety-conscious parents of young children put cleaning supplies
out of reach or in a locked cabinet.
noun
characteristic position or bearing of the body.
A dancer’s posture is as important in ballroom dancing as it is
in ballet.
noun
the money, price, or consideration paid or demanded for the
release of a captured person.
The amount of the ransom was unreasonable even for Mr.
Bennett’s vast financial resources.
plural noun
the claws of a bird of prey.
The eagle’s beak and talons are indeed a formidable sight.
noun
a person who loves his country and defends and promotes its
interests.
The foreign spy convinced others that he was a flag-waving
patriot.
page 22
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
107.
humane
\ hyVSmCn \
[ \ yVSmCn \ ]
108.
stellar
\ SstelE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
109.
eyelet
\ SIlDt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
110.
oasis
\ PSCsDs \
[ \ SPEsDs \ ]
111.
uniform
\ SyVnETfOrm \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
112.
fragrance
\ SfrCgrEn(t)s \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
113.
stomach
\ SstEmDk \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
114.
tissue
\ Sti(T)shV \
[ \ Stish(T)yV, Sti(T)shU, Stish(T)yU \ ]
adjective
marked by compassion, sympathy, or consideration for other
human beings or animals.
Sharon received an award for her humane treatment of stray
pets.
adjective
of, relating to, or derived from the stars.
Rapid stellar rotation can modify the structure of a star’s
atmosphere.
noun
a small hole usually round designed to receive a cord, lace, pin,
or button shank or used only for decoration (as in embroidery).
Without putting the shoestring through a single eyelet of her
sneakers, Kate knew that it would be too short.
noun
a small isolated fertile area that is surrounded by general
barrenness and typically marked by trees or other greenery and
that has a water supply.
The caravan rested for two days at the oasis.
noun
dress of a distinctive design or fashion adopted by or prescribed
for members of a particular group (as an armed service or a
social or work group) and serving as a means of identification.
Soldiers in uniform proudly marched in the Fourth of July
parade.
noun
a sweet smell or pleasing odor especially delicate or evanescent.
The fragrance of mulled cider wafted down the hallway.
noun
an enlargement of the alimentary canal of a vertebrate between
the esophagus and the first part of the small intestine that
provides various digestive enzymes and grinds and mixes food
materials by its muscular action.
Andrea claims that there is always room in her stomach for ice
cream.
noun
an aggregate of cells usually of a particular kind or kinds
together with their intercellular substance that form one of the
structural materials out of which the body of a plant or an animal
is built up.
The three types of muscle tissue in the human body are visceral
muscle, skeletal muscle, and cardiac muscle.
page 23
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
115.
\ SrigEl \
wriggle
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
116.
\ prGSvCl \
prevail
[ \ prDSvCl \ ]
117.
\ tESrifik \
terrific
[no alternate pronunciation(s);
nonstandard pron(s): \ tESrifGk \ ]
118.
\ dDSlIZDd \
delighted
[ \ dDSlItDd, dGSlIZDd \ ]
119.
\ SfP(E)rTgraUnd \
foreground
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
120.
\ SmOrZEr \
mortar
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
121.
kindergarten
\ SkindErTgBrtFn \
[ \ SkindErTgBrdFn \ ]
122.
question
\ Skwes(h)chEn \
[ \ SkweshEn \ ]
verb
move the body or a bodily part to and fro with short writhing
motions like a worm.
Snakes that wriggle through tall grass find their way into many
of Zakia’s bad dreams.
verb
be or become effective or effectual : be successful.
The attorney is confident that justice will prevail in the case.
adjective
unusually fine or gratifying : exciting admiration or enthusiasm.
David had a hunch that his SAT score would be terrific.
adjective
highly pleased : gratified : joyous.
The delighted visitors couldn’t help laughing at the monkey’s
antics.
noun
the part of a scene that is nearest to and in front of the spectator.
Although there were many actors in the scene, the main action
was taking place in the foreground.
noun
something that binds or holds together.
Sam watched as the brickmason expertly set the bricks into the
hardening mortar.
adjective
of or relating to an elementary level or initial phase.
After her request to skip from the sixth to the eighth grade was
denied, Kathleen was openly scornful of the kindergarten math
problems the teacher kept assigning.
verb
express doubt about : dispute.
Subordinates who question Sergeant McGonigle’s orders can
expect dire consequences.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
123.
veil
\ SvCl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun [has homonym: vale]
a length of light sheer fabric or netting worn over the head or
face or attached for protection or ornament to a hat or headdress.
After arriving at the church, the bride frantically announced that
she had forgotten her veil.
page 24
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
124.
calculator
\ SkalkyETlCZE(r) \
[ \ SkalkyETlCtEr \ ]
125.
therapy
\ StherEpG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a device used for computing amounts.
Mr. Jensen permitted each student to use a calculator during the
exam.
noun
treatment of disease in animals or plants by agents or methods
that serve or help to terminate disease and restore health.
The oncologist recommended laser therapy for the cancer
patient.
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 6 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
126.
confection
\ kEnSfekshEn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
127.
toilsome
\ StOilsEm \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
128.
tourism
\ StUTrizEm \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
129.
unreadable
\ TEnSrGdEbEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
130.
peruse
\ pESrVz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun [has near homonym: convection]
a delicacy; usually : a preparation of fruits, nuts, roots, or other
morsels with sugar.
Turkish delight is a chewy confection often flavored with finely
chopped nuts and rosewater.
adjective
marked by or full of effort.
Tula set herself the toilsome job of cleaning the garage.
noun
the economic activities associated with and dependent upon
those that travel from place to place for pleasure or culture.
Ski tourism is a major source of income in Switzerland and
Austria.
adjective
lacking attraction or interest as material for reading : alien or
dull in vein or spirit.
Two years ago Joy found the novel unreadable, but now she
cannot put it down.
verb
read; specifically : read through or read over with some attention
and typically for the purpose of discovering or noting one or
more specific points.
Jan will peruse several journals in the hope of getting needed
material for further research.
page 25
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
131.
widget
\ SwijDt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
132.
cleave
\ SklGv \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
133.
realty
\ SrGEltG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
134.
blizzard
\ SblizErd \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
135.
larceny
\ SlBrsFnG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
136.
recruit
\ rDSkrVt \
[ \ rGSkrVt \ ]
137.
defunct
\ dDSfEN(k)t \
[ \ dGSfEN(k)t \]
138.
delved
\ Sdelvd \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
139.
plague
\ SplCg \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
an unnamed article considered for purposes of hypothetical
example as the typical product of a company.
On Trudy’s graph, each star represents one widget.
verb
adhere firmly, loyally, and unwaveringly.
The minister said that even though doubt is a natural human
failing, it is imperative that believers still cleave to the doctrines
of the church.
noun
land and its permanently affixed buildings or other structures
together with its improvements and its natural assets (as
minerals, crops, waters) and with the inclusion of rights that
follow ownership of the land.
Aurora built a large business in corporate realty.
noun
a severe and prolonged snowstorm.
Last winter many of Uncle Harold’s cattle perished in a
blizzard.
noun
the unlawful taking and carrying away of personal property
without the consent of its lawful possessor.
When Tina first saw Victor’s art collection, she suspected him of
larceny.
noun
a newly enlisted or drafted member of the armed services;
specifically : an enlistee or draftee of the lowest grade in the
army.
The recruit quickly adapted to military life during the first few
days of basic training.
adjective
having finished the course of life or existence : dead : extinct.
The mechanical adding machine became defunct following the
advent of the pocket calculator.
verb
dug into : explored by or as if by digging.
As an amateur archaeologist, Vernon delved into many creek
beds for artifacts.
noun
an epidemic disease causing a high rate of mortality.
For several months in 2003, severe acute respiratory syndrome
was considered by some to be a twenty-first–century plague.
page 26
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
140.
fanzine
\ fanSzGn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
141.
hurriedly
\ ShErDdlG \
[ \ ShErGdlG \ ]
142.
carpenter
\ SkBrpEntE(r) \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
143.
evidence
\ SevEdEn(t)s \
[SevETden(t)s]
144.
thermostat
\ SthErmETstat \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
a periodical publication that is written and edited by sciencefiction and fantasy enthusiasts.
Brendan’s articles for a popular fanzine were good enough to
win the attention of an agent, who got him a book deal.
adverb
quickly : hastily.
The Joneses hurriedly left their home when they received the
reverse 911 call informing them of the fire danger.
noun
a person who builds or repairs with wood.
Matthew hired a carpenter to construct four bookcases.
noun
something legally submitted to a competent tribunal as a means
of ascertaining the truth of any alleged matter of fact under
investigation before it.
The suspect’s fingerprints on the murder weapon were sufficient
evidence for his arrest.
noun
an automatic device for regulating temperature (as by opening or
closing the damper of a heating furnace or by regulating supply
of gas).
During the winter David keeps his home’s thermostat set at 72
degrees.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
145.
clarinet
\ TklarESnet \
[ \ SklarEnDt \ ]
146.
exotic
\ igSzBZik \
[ \ egSzBZik, ikSsBZik \ ]
noun [could be confused with differently pronounced variant
clarionet]
an orchestral and band instrument having a cylindrical tube with
moderately flaring end and a strong flexible violinlike tone.
In Prokofiev’s “Peter and the Wolf,” the cat is represented by a
musical theme played on a clarinet.
adjective
from another country : not native to the place where found.
Little did Gretchen know that the exotic bird she bought had
been illegally smuggled into the country.
page 27
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
147.
\ SpirETmid \
pyramid
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
148.
\ SpEnjEnt \
pungent
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
an ancient massive structure of huge stone blocks found
especially in Egypt having typically a square ground plan,
outside walls in the form of four triangles that meet in a point at
the top, and inner sepulchral chambers.
Rico became speechless when he spotted a pyramid on the
desert horizon.
adjective
causing a sharp sensation : pricking : irritating : acrid.
The pungent odor of wet dog sent the guests out for fresh air.
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.
149.
envoy
\ SBnTvOi \
[ \ SenTvOi \ ]
150.
trespass
\ StreTspas \
[ \ StrespEs \ ]
noun [has homonym: envoi]
any person delegated to represent one sovereign or government
in its relations with another.
The “Enterprise” conveyed the envoy to the peace conference
without incident.
verb
cross an established boundary line.
People who trespass on Farmer Brown’s property might have a
surprise encounter with rock salt from his muzzle-loader.
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 7 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
151.
ecstatic
\ ekSstaZik \
[ \ DkSstaZik, ekSstatik \ ]
152.
syllable
\ SsilEbEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
153.
emphasize
\ Sem(p)fETsIz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
adjective
caused by, expressing, or causing a state of exaltation or
rapturous delight.
Maria was ecstatic when her boyfriend proposed to her.
noun
a unit of spoken language that consists of one or more vowel
sounds alone or of a consonant sound alone or of either
accompanied by one or more consonant sounds preceding or
following.
When spelling long words, some spellers find it helpful to
proceed syllable by syllable.
verb
give special consideration of or place stress or insistence upon.
Teachers emphasize the importance of handing in assignments
on time.
page 28
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
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.
154.
hostile
\ ShBstFl \
[ \ ShBTstIl, ShB(T)stil, ShOstFl \ ]
155.
brochure
\ brPSshUr \
[no alternate pronunciation(s); no
nstandard pron(s): \ SbrPshEr \ ]
adjective [has homonym: hostel]
marked by antagonism or unfriendliness.
The relationship between Jack and his brother has been hostile
for about two years.
noun
a pamphlet or a booklet; also : an article published in such form.
Cynthia just received a brochure from the local travel agency.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
156.
calzone
\ kalSzPn \
[ \ kalSzP(T)nC, kalSzP(T)nG,
kBlSzOnC \ ]
157.
matrimony
\ SmatrETmPnG \
[ \ SmatrEmEnG \ ]
158.
gourmet
\ TgUrSmC \
[ \ TgPrSmC \ ]
159.
puree
\ pyVSrC \
[ \ pyUSrC, pyESrC \ ;
nonstandard pron(s): \ pESrC,
pyVSrG \ ]
160.
pursuit
\ pErSsVt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
161.
serenade
\ TserESnCd \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun [One of alternate pronunciations could be confused with
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.
noun
the union of two individuals in a special kind of social and legal
dependence.
The Las Vegas chapel specialized in instant matrimony.
noun
a connoisseur in eating and drinking.
At the market the gourmet chose his ingredients with the
greatest of care.
verb
boil soft and then rub through a sieve.
Geneva will puree vegetables for the baby when he is six months
old.
noun
a chasing with haste.
The patrol car sped off in pursuit of the robbers.
verb
entertain with or perform music in honor of.
The football team will serenade its coach during the pep rally.
page 29
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
162.
condiment
\ SkBndEmEnt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
163.
elegant
\ SelDgEnt \
[ \ SelGgEnt \ ]
164.
leisure
\ SlGzhE(r) \
[ \ SlezhEr \ ]
165.
juvenile
\ SjVvETnIl \
[ \ SjVvEnFl, SjVvE(T)nil \ ]
166.
allocation
\ TalESkCshEn \
[ \ TalPSkCshEn \ ]
167.
frivolous
\ Sfriv(E)lEs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
168.
disappoint
\ TdisESpOint \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
169.
allergenic
\ TalE(r)Sjenik \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
170.
desperately
\ SdespErDtlG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
something usually pungent, acid, salty, or spicy added to or
served with food to enhance its flavor or to give added flavor : a
seasoning.
Mustard is the condiment usually served on hot pastrami
sandwiches.
adjective
characterized by tasteful richness especially of design or
ornamentation : luxurious or sumptuous in a refined way.
The debutante’s escort was dressed in an elegant silk-lined
tuxedo.
noun
time at one’s command that is free of engagements or
responsibilities.
When Tim retired, he found many ways to occupy his leisure.
adjective
of, relating to, or having the characteristics of youth or a young
person.
Many breakfast-cereal advertisements are geared to a juvenile
audience.
noun
apportionment for specific purposes or to particular persons or
organizations.
The allocation of powers in the United States Constitution is
clearly defined.
adjective
of little weight or importance.
Mr. Peterson offered only frivolous remarks at the hearing.
verb
thwart or defeat the expectation or hope of.
The quarterly report of company earnings will disappoint the
stockholders.
adjective
of or relating to a substance that produces an exaggerated or
pathological reaction marked by sneezing, respiratory
embarrassment, itching, and skin rashes.
Eating too many tomatoes caused Horace’s allergenic reaction.
adverb
with an intensified or all-out last-ditch effort in refusal to give
up a struggle or purpose.
Firefighters tried desperately to rescue every person in the
burning house.
page 30
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
171.
jubilant
\ SjVbElEnt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
172.
accrued
\ ESkrVd \
[ \ aSkrVd \ ]
173.
technician
\ tekSnishEn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
174.
potassium
\ pEStasGEm \
[ \ pPStasGEm, pEStasyEm \ ]
175.
ulterior
\ TElStirGEr \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
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.
verb
collected : accumulated.
Helen has accrued 30 days of personal leave at work.
noun
one who has special usually practical knowledge especially of a
mechanical or scientific subject and has learned the special skills
of an occupation.
An electronics technician keeps the department’s computers in
good operating condition.
noun
an element of the alkali metal group.
Bananas and potatoes are good dietary sources of potassium.
adjective
not apparent : hidden.
When Sherman volunteered to walk the dog, his ulterior motive
was to escape the boring conversation in the house.
This is the recommended starting point for Grade 8 Classroom Spelling Bees.
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.
176.
inflammable
\ DnSflamEbEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
177.
controversy
\ SkBntrETvErsG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s);
nonstandard pron(s):
\ kEnStrBvErsi \ ]
178.
leniency
\ SlGnGEnsG \
[ \ SlGnyEnsG, SlenGEnsG \ ]
adjective
capable of being easily set on fire.
Inflammable hair products carry a warning label.
noun
a difference marked especially by the expression of opposing
views : a dispute.
The controversy embroiling the public school principal and the
editor of the school newspaper concerned First Amendment
rights.
noun
compassion or kindness extended to someone instead of
strictness or severity.
At his sentencing the convicted felon expressed remorse and
pleaded for leniency.
page 31
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
179.
siege
\ SsGj \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
180.
compromise
\ SkBmprETmIz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
181.
incidental
\ Tin(t)sESdentFl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
182.
feign
\ SfCn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
183.
fedora
\ fDSdPrE \
[ \ fDSdOrE \ ]
184.
dilemma
\ dDSlemE \
[ \ dISlemE \ ]
185.
correspondence
\ TkOrESspBndEn(t)s \
[ \ TkBrESspBndEn(t)s \ ]
186.
whimsical
\ ShwimzDkEl \
[ \ SwimzDkEl \ ]
noun
the operations of an army around or before a fortified place for
the purpose of compelling its surrender or of reducing it by
assault after systematic blockade, advances, and bombardment.
The defenders were confident they could outlast the siege
because the castle had an underground source of fresh water.
verb
come to a settlement or agreement by mutual concession.
The warring factions have decided that they will compromise in
order to end hostilities.
adjective
occurring merely by chance or without intention or calculation :
occurring as a minor concomitant.
Patsy’s incidental expenses on her business trip included $20 in
gratuities.
verb
give a sham appearance of.
In an emergency, Maris will feign composure to save her pride.
noun
a soft felt hat with a low crown creased lengthwise and with or
without a high roll on the side brim.
Brent stepped into the spotlight and pulled his fedora low over
one eye.
noun
a choice or a situation involving choice between equally
unsatisfactory alternatives.
The retailer’s dilemma was whether to lower prices or to accept
sluggishness of sales.
noun [has homonym: plural noun correspondents]
the written or printed messages exchanged by those who
communicate.
Looking for information, the biographer combed his subject’s
correspondence.
adjective
resulting from or determined by sudden unpredictable impulses.
The author has written a volume of whimsical poetry that is
delightful reading for kids and parents alike.
page 32
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
187.
fluoride
\ SflPrTId \
[ \ SflUETrId, SflUErDd, SflOTrId \ ]
noun
a binary compound of a nonmetallic element that is one of the
most powerful oxidizing agents known, attacking water, most
metals, and organic compounds.
The addition of fluoride to drinking water is denounced by some
and advocated by others.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
188.
loathe
\ lPL \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
189.
exaggerate
\ igSzajETrCt \
[ \ egSzajETrCt \ ]
190.
auditorium
\ TOdEStPrGEm \
[ \ TOdEStOrGEm \ ]
191.
hospice
\ ShBspDs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
192.
ecosystem
\ SekPTsistDm \
[ \ SGkPTsistDm \ ]
193.
carnage
\ SkBrnij \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
194.
epilepsy
\ SepETlepsG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
verb [Adjective can be spelled l-o-a-t-h, l-o-t-h, l-o-a-t-h-e.]
feel strong aversion for : detest or abhor.
Many of the students at Ridgeview Middle School loathe pop
music.
verb
misrepresent on the side of largeness (as of size, extent, or
value) : overstate the truth.
Fishermen often exaggerate when describing the size of their
catches.
noun
a room, hall, or entire building specially designed for stage and
film presentations, concerts, lectures, and audio-visual features
and activities.
A new curtain for the stage of the auditorium was purchased
with money raised by the students.
noun
a facility or program designed to provide a caring environment
for meeting the physical and emotional needs of the terminally
ill.
Many counselors who work in a hospice become very close to
the families of their patients.
noun
an ecological community considered together with the nonliving
factors of its environment as a unit.
The fact that his diesel tank was an ecosystem in itself came
home to Ray when the algae clogged fuel filter after fuel filter.
noun
great destruction of life (as in battle) : great bloodshed.
The carnage on the battlefield at Antietam in 1862 was the
greatest for a single day in American combat history.
noun
a chronic nervous disorder of humans and other animals that
involves changes in the state of consciousness and of motion.
Epilepsy is sometimes caused by glandular disturbances.
page 33
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
195.
gloaming
\ SglPmiN \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
196.
surrealist
\ sESrGElDst \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
197.
philosophize
\ fDSlBsETfIz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
198.
gouge
\ SgaUj \
[no alternate pronunciation(s);
nonstandard pron(s): \ SgVj \ ]
199.
tentativeness
\ StentEZivnDs \
[ \ StentEtivnDs \ ]
200.
phylum
\ SfIlEm \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
201.
posthumous
\ SpBschEmEs \
[ \ pBSstyVmEs, pBSstVmEs,
pPSstyVmEs \ ]
202.
tutelage
\ StVZFlij \
[ \ StyVZFlij \ ]
203.
debris
\ dESbrG \
[ \ dCSbrG, deSbrG \ ]
noun
twilight : dusk.
Bart heard the robins singing in the gloaming.
noun
one that adheres to, practices, or follows the practice of
producing fantastic or incongruous imagery in art or literature by
means of unnatural juxtapositions and combinations.
Andre’s grandfather was a well-known French surrealist.
verb
seek a rational basis for fact and experience : reflect : theorize.
Jermain will philosophize about any topic if given the
opportunity.
noun
a chisel used especially for scooping or cutting holes, channels,
or grooves (as in wood or stone).
Adrian used a gouge to incise a leaf pattern on the bench.
noun
the quality or state of being uncertain or hesitant.
The immense importance of the game accounted for much of the
players’ tentativeness and overdeliberateness.
noun
one of the usually primary divisions of the animal kingdom.
Insects belong to the phylum Arthropoda.
adjective
published after the death of the author.
The novelist’s posthumous works became his most popular
ones.
noun
instruction; especially : individual instruction accompanied by
close personal attention and a conscious attempt at guidance.
Evan made astounding progress under the tutelage of his new
trumpet teacher.
noun
the remains of something broken down or destroyed.
Scattered debris lies where majestic homes stood before last
week’s tornado.
page 34
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
204.
scythe
\ SsIL \
[ \ SsIth \ ]
205.
retrospect
\ SretrETspekt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s);
nonstandard pron(s):
\ SrGtrEspekt \ ]
206.
beatific
\ TbGEStifik \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
207.
vehemence
\ SvGEmEn(t)s \
[no alternate pronunciation(s);
nonstandard pron(s):
\ SvGhEmEn(t)s, SvCEmEn(t)s,
vDShGmEn(t)s]
208.
behemoth
\ bDShGmEth \
[ \ bGShGmEth, SbGETmOth \ ]
209.
cartilage
\ SkBrZFlij \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
210.
ensemble
\ BnSsBmbEl \
[ \ SBMTsBmbEl, BMSsBMbl(F),
BMSsBMb(lE) \ ]
211.
polenta
\ pPSlentE \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
212.
mortgage
\ SmOrgij \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
an implement used for mowing grass, grain, or other crops and
composed of a long curving blade fastened at an angle to a long
handle.
A worker used a scythe to cut the tall grass growing alongside
the road.
verb
practice the act of surveying the past.
People who retrospect usually appreciate the value of learning
from mistakes.
adjective
marked by an appearance of complete bliss or utter benignity.
The hockey player appeared beatific as he related how he made
the winning goal.
noun
the quality or state of being scathingly hostile.
The reformer lashed out at his critics with uncharacteristic
vehemence.
noun
something of oppressive or monstrous size or power.
Anwar’s wrestling opponent was a behemoth of a man.
noun
a translucent elastic tissue that composes most of the skeleton of
the embryos and very young of vertebrates and is for the most
part converted into bone in the higher forms.
Hans had a small piece of cartilage removed from his elbow.
noun
a group of supporting players, singers, or dancers.
The principals in the play were ably supported by the ensemble.
noun
mush originally made of chestnut meal but now principally of
cornmeal or sometimes of semolina or farina.
Polenta is cooked very slowly on top of the stove and can be cut
into slices after it cools.
noun
a conveyance of property upon condition that operates as a lien
or charge securing the payment of the money or the performance
of an obligation.
Mr. and Mrs. Case took their family out to dinner to celebrate
making the final payment on their home’s mortgage.
page 35
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
213.
circumlocution
\ TsErkEmlPSkyVshEn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
214.
afghan
\ SafTgan \
[ \ SafgEn \ ]
215.
cellophane
\ SselETfCn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
216.
timorously
\ Stim(E)rEslG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
217.
pituitary
\ pDStVETterG \
[ \ pDStyVETterG \ ]
218.
jambalaya
\ TjEmbESlIE \
[ \ TjEmbESlByE \ ]
219.
extemporaneous
\ TekTstempESrCnGEs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
220.
carbohydrates
noun
the use of an unnecessarily large number of words to express an
idea.
The attorney’s circumlocution caused one of the jurors to doze
off.
noun
a blanket or shawl of colored wool, knitted or crocheted in strips
or squares which are joined by sewing or crocheting.
Mrs. Campbell knitted a striped afghan as a housewarming
present for her new neighbors.
noun
a transparent sheet or tube of regenerated cellulose used chiefly
as a wrapper for packaging food and merchandise.
Nina refuses to buy tomatoes packaged in cellophane.
adverb
in a manner showing fear or apprehension.
Pam timorously responded to her name and said that she had
not finished her book report.
adjective
of or relating to the small oval reddish gray endocrine organ
attached to the base of the brain.
The pituitary gland produces various internal secretions which
exert a controlling and regulating influence on growth and
development.
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.
adjective
composed, performed, or uttered on or as if on the spur of the
moment.
Suzi gave an extemporaneous talk about bonsai at the craft club
meeting.
\ TkBrbPShITdrCts \
plural noun
[ \ TkBrbEShITdrCts, TkBrbEShITdrDts \ ] neutral compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
including the sugars and starches.
The nutrition facts indicated that the candy bar would provide
Sheila with over half her recommended daily allowance of
carbohydrates.
page 36
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
221.
\ SkBlErE \
cholera
[ \ SkBlrE \ ]
222.
mezzanine
\ SmezFnTGn \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun
any of several diseases of man and domestic animals usually
marked by severe gastrointestinal symptoms.
Cholera is a major public health concern in many tropical
countries.
noun
the lowest balcony in a theater.
Melinda says that she enjoys the view from the mezzanine better
than the view from the orchestra.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
223.
tableau
\ StaTblP \
[ \ Staa(E)TblP \ ]
224.
stroganoff
\ SstrOgETnOf \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
225.
extraordinarily
\ ikTstrO(r)dFnSerDlG \
[ \ ekTstrOrdFnSerDlG \ ]
noun [Plural form can be pronounced similarly.]
a static depiction usually presented on a stage with participants
in appropriate costume.
The final scene is a tableau in which the family is gathered at
the gravesite.
adjective
[A familiar pronunciation is not listed in Webster’s Third.]
sliced thin and cooked in a sauce of meat stock, sour cream,
mustard, onion, and condiments.
Erica prepared beef stroganoff for the mayor’s visit.
adverb
in a manner beyond what is usual, regular, common, or
customary.
Dr. Miller told us that Brutus was extraordinarily frisky this
morning.
page 37
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
Words 226–250 are selected from Webster’s Third.
226.
negotiable
\ nDSgPshEbEl \
[ \ nDSgPshGEbEl, nGSgPshEbEl \ ]
227.
attorneys
\ EStErnGz \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
228.
dynamo
\ SdInETmP \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
229.
potable
\ SpPZEbEl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
230.
revenue
\ SrevETnV \
[ \ SrevETnyV \ ]
231.
aluminum
\ ESlVmEnEm \
[ \ ElSyVmEnEm \ ]
232.
inaugurate
\ DSnOgyETrCt \
[ \ DSnOgETrCt \ ]
233.
serrated
\ SseTrCZDd \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
234.
frabjous
\ SfrabjEs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
adjective
that can be transferred or assigned in return for equivalent
value.
Leah wondered if the old bills she found in the trunk were still
negotiable.
plural noun
agents qualified to act by legal process and for those who
bring or answer legal actions in legal proceedings.
Under the state’s law of civil discovery, the hospital had to
hand over all relevant documents to the attorneys for the
plaintiff.
noun
a direct-current generator.
The old car had a dynamo powered by the front tire.
adjective
suitable, safe, or prepared for drinking.
Chemicals are often added to water supplies to make them
potable.
noun
the income that comes back from an investment (as in real or
personal property).
The revenue from Maria’s rental property enabled her to buy
a vacation cabin.
noun
a bluish silver-white metallic element that is the most
abundant metal in Earth’s crust.
Aluminum is usually alloyed with other metals because it is
soft and not very strong.
verb
introduce or induct into an office with suitable ceremonies or
solemnities : invest with power or authority in a formal
manner.
The United States will inaugurate a president in January
every four years.
adjective
notched or toothed on the edge.
Under the microscope, dust mites appear to be hairy
monsters with serrated claws.
adjective
wonderful.
Vonda thought happily that her graduation party was the
final event of a simply frabjous day.
page 38
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
235.
repetitious
\ TrepEStishEs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
236.
itinerary
\ IStinETrerG \
[no alternate pronunciation(s);
nonstandard pron(s): \ DStinETrerG,
IStinErG \ ]
237.
neutralize
\ SnVtrETlIz \
[ \ SnyVtrETlIz \ ]
238.
gyromancy
\ SjIrETmantsG \
[ \ SjIrETmansG \ ]
239.
dalliance
\ SdalGEn(t)s \
[ \ SdalyEn(t)s \ ]
240.
cruciverbalist
\ TkrVsESvErbElDst \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
241.
Chihuahua
\ chDSwB(T)wB \
[ \ shDSwB(T)wB \ ]
242.
jocundity
\ jPSkEndEZG \
[ \ jPSkEndEtG \ ]
243.
meandrous
\ mGSandrEs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
244.
scalene
\ SskCTlGn \
[ \ skCSlGn \ ]
adjective
marked by the act of saying or doing again something already
said or done.
Bettina complained that her piano lessons were repetitious.
noun
a sketch of the prospective course of a journey or trip.
The senator’s itinerary called for ten stops in two days.
verb
make chemically neither acid nor base.
Glen hopes that the antacid will neutralize the cause of his
indigestion.
noun
divination in which one walking in or around a circle falls
from dizziness and prognosticates from the place of the fall.
In one form of gyromancy, a circle is marked with the
alphabet so that words may be formed as the diviner falls on
the letters.
noun
frivolous action.
Melba told Herb to stop his dalliance with the computer and
to do something constructive such as taking out the garbage.
noun
a person skillful in creating or solving crossword puzzles.
Angela was named “Cruciverbalist of the Month” by her
crossword club.
noun
a very small round-headed large-eared short-coated dog
reputed to predate Aztec civilization.
A popular fast food restaurant chain once used a talking
Chihuahua in its advertisements.
noun
the quality or state of being cheerful and lively.
Mr. Clifton’s Monday-morning jocundity was contagious.
adjective
winding : flexuous : rambling.
Over thousands of years the river had cut a meandrous
channel through the plain.
adjective
having the sides unequal—used of a triangle.
The boat’s sail formed a scalene triangle.
page 39
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
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.
245.
\ SlIkDn \
lichen
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
246.
tickicidal
\ TtikESsIdFl \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun [has homonym: liken]
any of numerous complex plants that are made up of an alga
and a fungus growing in symbiotic association on various
solid surfaces (as rocks or the bark of trees).
Sean used a mixture of green paint and sawdust to simulate
lichen on his model train layout.
adjective
destroying or controlling any of several wingless parasitic
insects.
The exterminator used a tickicidal agent to eliminate the
pests.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
247.
\ bCnSyC \
beignet
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun [Plural form can be pronounced identically.]
a small quantity of batter fried in deep fat or sautéed.
Carla coated her last beignet with all the powdered
sugar that remained on the plate.
The following word could be confused with another word similar in sound and/or spelling.
Ensure that the speller has a clear understanding of the word’s pronunciation.
248.
habanero
\ ThBbESnerP \
[ \ ThBbESnyerP, TBbESnerP \ ]
249.
xerophyte
\ SzirETfIt \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
250.
entomophagous
\ TentESmBfEgEs \
[no alternate pronunciation(s)]
noun [could be confused with habanera]
a very hot roundish chili pepper that is usually orange
when mature.
The habanero is often used for seasoning in Caribbean
cuisine.
noun
a plant structurally adapted for life and growth with a
limited water supply especially by means of mechanisms
that limit transpiration or that provide for the storage of
water.
Jane knows from the plant’s appearance that it is a
xerophyte, but she does not know that it is commonly
called “prickly pear.”
adjective
feeding on insects.
Many entomophagous birds migrate to warmer climates
before winter starts.
page 40
2012 Classroom Pronouncer Guide
A
aboard – 82.
absorb – 96.
accrued – 172.
afghan – 214.
allergenic – 169.
allocation – 166.
aluminum – 231.
apron – 53.
attorneys – 227.
auditorium – 190.
B
bagpipe – 32.
ballroom – 21.
batter – 29.
beaming – 56.
beatific – 206.
behemoth – 208.
beignet – 247.
blizzard – 134.
brace – 16.
brochure – 155.
butterflies – 77.
C
cabinet – 102.
cakewalk – 22.
calculator – 124.
calzone – 156.
caper – 100.
carbohydrates – 220.
carnage – 193.
carpenter – 142.
cartilage – 209.
cellophane – 215.
cement – 88.
chapter – 50.
cherry – 27.
Chihuahua – 241.
cholera – 221.
chowder – 43.
circumlocution – 213.
clarinet – 145.
cleave – 132.
clinic – 49.
compromise – 180.
condiment – 162.
confection – 126.
controversy – 177.
correspondence – 185.
cram – 8.
crate – 1.
cruciverbalist – 240.
crutch – 41.
cub – 5.
cusp – 59.
D
dalliance – 239.
dare – 15.
debris – 203.
defunct – 137.
delighted – 118.
delved – 138.
demanding – 99.
desperately – 170.
dilemma – 184.
disappoint – 168.
disgust – 78.
dismal – 87.
drawer – 30.
drifting – 44.
drizzle – 73.
dynamo – 228.
E
ecosystem – 192.
ecstatic – 151.
elegant – 163.
emphasize – 153.
ensemble – 210.
entomophagous – 250.
envoy – 149.
epilepsy – 194.
even – 13.
evidence – 143.
exaggerate – 189.
exotic – 146.
extemporaneous – 219.
extraordinarily – 225.
eyelet – 109.
F
fanzine – 140.
fedora – 183.
feeble – 71.
feign – 182.
file – 9.
firefly – 36.
fleet – 45.
fluoride – 187.
folly – 72.
foreground – 119.
frabjous – 234.
fragrance – 112.
frivolous – 167.
frugal – 38.
G
garnish – 61.
gasp – 6.
ginger – 42.
gloaming – 195.
gouge – 198.
gourmet – 158.
grapevine – 23.
gravy – 35.
grumpy – 64.
gyromancy – 238.
H
I
inaugurate – 232.
incidental – 181.
inflammable – 176.
intense – 84.
itinerary – 236.
J
jambalaya – 218.
jewel – 54.
jocundity – 242.
journal – 101.
jubilant – 171.
juvenile – 165.
K
keyhole – 63.
kidney – 98.
kindergarten – 121.
kitchen – 57.
L
larceny – 135.
large – 2.
leftovers – 81.
leisure – 164.
leniency – 178.
lichen – 245.
loathe – 188.
locker – 25.
lonely – 67.
habanero – 248.
hamper – 34.
handcuffs – 37.
harmless – 65.
herbs – 52.
homework – 24.
hospice – 191.
hostile – 154.
humane – 107.
hurriedly – 141.
page 41
Alphabetical Index
M
Q
T
W
mallet – 94.
matrimony – 157.
meandrous – 243.
mess – 11.
mezzanine – 222.
migrate – 69.
mortar – 120.
mortgage – 212.
mumble – 80.
mural – 83.
muse – 26.
question – 122.
tableau – 223.
tack – 4.
talons – 105.
technician – 173.
tentativeness – 199.
terrific – 117.
therapy – 125.
thermostat – 144.
tickicidal – 246.
timorously – 216.
tissue – 114.
toilsome – 127.
tongs – 28.
tough – 31.
tourism – 128.
treadmill – 97.
trespass – 150.
trio – 93.
trunk – 17.
tutelage – 202.
twice – 20.
twirl – 66.
twitter – 90.
wardrobe – 92.
weigh – 86.
whimsical – 186.
widget – 131.
windchill – 40.
wizard – 62.
wombat – 74.
wooden – 60.
wreck – 58.
wriggle – 115.
N
negotiable – 226.
nephew – 95.
neutralize – 237.
nibble – 47.
O
oasis – 110.
P
patriot – 106.
peruse – 130.
philosophize – 197.
phylum – 200.
pitcher – 39.
pituitary – 217.
plague – 139.
polenta – 211.
posthumous – 201.
posture – 103.
potable – 229.
potassium – 174.
prevail – 116.
proud – 18.
pudding – 51.
pungent – 148.
pupil – 75.
puree – 159.
pursuit – 160.
pyramid – 147.
R
rabies – 91.
rake – 10.
ransom – 104.
rascal – 89.
realty – 133.
recruit – 136.
relish – 85.
repetitious – 235.
retrospect – 205.
revenue – 230.
S
salt – 3.
scalene – 244.
scan – 14.
scramble – 55.
scythe – 204.
serenade – 161.
serious – 68.
serrated – 233.
shine – 19.
shovel – 70.
siege – 179.
simmer – 79.
skillet – 76.
solve – 46.
stellar – 108.
stern – 33.
stomach – 113.
stroganoff – 224.
strong – 7.
study – 12.
sunflower – 48.
surrealist – 196.
syllable – 152.
X
xerophyte – 249.
U
ulterior – 175.
uniform – 111.
unreadable – 129.
V
vehemence – 207.
veil – 123.
page 42
Alphabetical Index
1. crate
2. large
3. salt
4. tack
5. cub
6. gasp
7. strong
8. cram
9. file
10. rake
11. mess
12. study
13. even
14. scan
15. dare
16. brace
17. trunk
18. proud
19. shine
20. twice
21. ballroom
22. cakewalk
23. grapevine
24. homework
25. locker
26. muse
27. cherry
28. tongs
29. batter
30. drawer
31. tough
32. bagpipe
33. stern
34. hamper
35. gravy
36. firefly
37. handcuffs
38. frugal
39. pitcher
40. windchill
41. crutch
42. ginger
43. chowder
44. drifting
45. fleet
46. solve
47. nibble
48. sunflower
49. clinic
50. chapter
51. pudding
52. herbs
53. apron
54. jewel
55. scramble
56. beaming
57. kitchen
58. wreck
59. cusp
60. wooden
61. garnish
62. wizard
63. keyhole
64. grumpy
65. harmless
66. twirl
67. lonely
68. serious
69. migrate
70. shovel
71. feeble
72. folly
73. drizzle
74. wombat
75. pupil
76. skillet
77. butterflies
78. disgust
79. simmer
80. mumble
81. leftovers
82. aboard
83. mural
84. intense
85. relish
86. weigh
87. dismal
88. cement
89. rascal
90. twitter
91. rabies
92. wardrobe
93. trio
94. mallet
95. nephew
96. absorb
97. treadmill
98. kidney
99. demanding
100. caper
101. journal
102. cabinet
103. posture
104. ransom
105. talons
106. patriot
107. humane
108. stellar
109. eyelet
110. oasis
111. uniform
112. fragrance
113. stomach
114. tissue
115. wriggle
116. prevail
117. terrific
118. delighted
119. foreground
120. mortar
121. kindergarten
122. question
123. veil
124. calculator
125. therapy
126. confection
127. toilsome
128. tourism
129. unreadable
130. peruse
131. widget
132. cleave
133. realty
134. blizzard
135. larceny
136. recruit
137. defunct
138. delved
139. plague
140. fanzine
141. hurriedly
142. carpenter
143. evidence
144. thermostat
145. clarinet
146. exotic
147. pyramid
148. pungent
149. envoy
150. trespass
151. ecstatic
152. syllable
153. emphasize
154. hostile
155. brochure
156. calzone
157. matrimony
158. gourmet
159. puree
160. pursuit
161. serenade
162. condiment
163. elegant
164. leisure
165. juvenile
166. allocation
167. frivolous
168. disappoint
169. allergenic
170. desperately
171. jubilant
172. accrued
173. technician
174. potassium
175. ulterior
176. inflammable
177. controversy
178. leniency
179. siege
180. compromise
181. incidental
182. feign
183. fedora
184. dilemma
185. correspondence
186. whimsical
187. fluoride
188. loathe
189. exaggerate
190. auditorium
191. hospice
192. ecosystem
193. carnage
194. epilepsy
195. gloaming
196. surrealist
197. philosophize
198. gouge
199. tentativeness
200. phylum
201. posthumous
202. tutelage
203. debris
204. scythe
205. retrospect
206. beatific
207. vehemence
208. behemoth
209. cartilage
210. ensemble
211. polenta
212. mortgage
213. circumlocution
214. afghan
215. cellophane
216. timorously
217. pituitary
218. jambalaya
219. extemporaneous
220. carbohydrates
221. cholera
222. mezzanine
223. tableau
224. stroganoff
225. extraordinarily
226. negotiable
227. attorneys
228. dynamo
229. potable
230. revenue
231. aluminum
232. inaugurate
233. serrated
234. frabjous
235. repetitious
236. itinerary
237. neutralize
238. gyromancy
239. dalliance
240. cruciverbalist
241. Chihuahua
242. jocundity
243. meandrous
244. scalene
245. lichen
246. tickicidal
247. beignet
248. habanero
249. xerophyte
250. entomophagous
page 43
Numerical Index