2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List

2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently psychiatry ptarmigan pugilist n n n / sDSkIEtrG / / StBrmDgEn / / SpyVjElDst / Gk + L ScotGael L + E a branch of medicine that deals any of various grouses of northern a professional boxer. with the science of treating mental, regions having completely Years as a pugilist took their toll on emotional, or behavioral disorders. feathered feet. Leo’s coordination. The concept of multiple “Why did the ptarmigan cross the personalities is of special interest road?” asked Martha. pugilistic to Helen, who plans to pursue a career in psychiatry. pteridology pugnacious adj psychological ptomaine / pEgSnCshEs / n L psychomachy / StPTmCn / having a quarrelsome or belligerent n Gk > It nature. / sISkBmEkG / any of various organic bases some Bushpigs are pugnacious enough to Gk > L of which are poisonous and which put up a fight against a leopard. a conflict of the soul (as with the are formed by the action of body or between good and evil). putrefactive bacteria on puissance Countless novels have as their nitrogenous matter. theme the psychomachy within the About three hours after he had pulchritude hero as he struggles to do right. eaten, Dunstan realized that his lunch had been tainted with pulmonary psychrometer ptomaine. adj n / SpUlmETnerG / / sISkrBmEZE(r) / ptosis L Gk + Gk n of, relating to, or associated with a hygrometer whose operation / StPsDs / the lungs. depends on two similar Gk Uncle Rob’s pulmonary disease thermometers with the bulb of one [has near homonym: tussis] a requires that he breathe pure being kept wet so that it is cooled sagging or prolapse of an organ or oxygen at all times. as a result of evaporation and part; specifically : drooping of the shows a temperature lower than upper eyelid. pulsatile that of the dry-bulb thermometer. The film star had a clear case of adj Greg built a crude psychrometer ptosis. / SpElsEZFl / out of two old thermometers and L some cotton gauze. publication beating, throbbing. The heart is a pulsatile muscular psychrophilic puce organ that maintains the flow of adj blood. / TsIkrPSfilik / puchero Gk n pultaceous thriving at a relatively low / pVScheTrP / adj temperature. L > Sp / TpElStCshEs / The psychrophilic bacteria died a Latin American boiled dinner or L + Ecf when the refrigerator’s compressor stew containing beef, sausage, having a consistency like that of failed. bacon, and various vegetables. porridge. Olivia sampled puchero at an Serena dislikes rice pudding ptarmic Argentine restaurant. because of its pultaceous n consistency. / StBrmik / puerile Gk > L adj pulverize a substance that causes sneezing. / SpyU(E)rEl / Andrea is extremely allergic to L dust, an everpresent ptarmic childish or immature. difficult for her to avoid. Mrs. Yolton was not impressed by Tommy’s puerile behavior.

Page 204 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently pulverulent purlieu putrid adj n adj / pElSveryElEnt / / SpErl(T)yV / / SpyVtrDd / L F L consisting of or reducible to fine a place of resort : haunt. in an advanced state of powder. Vince can be found most evenings decomposition : rotten. Chalk is a pulverulent deposit of in the local pool hall, his favorite The putrid heap of kitchen scraps calcium carbonate. purlieu. will compost in no time. pumice purloin putsch n v n / SpEmDs / / pE(r)SlOin / / SpUch / L L > F > E imit G [has homonyms: pomace and appropriate wrongfully and often a secretly plotted and suddenly pumace] hardened volcanic froth. under circumstances that involve a executed attempt to overthrow a Ground pumice is sometimes used breach of trust. government or governing body. as an abrasive ingredient in soap. The district manager was fired The right-wing nationalist group when he was caught trying to plotted a putsch for early punchinello purloin company earnings. September. punctilious purportedly puzzling adj adj / TpEN(k)StilGEs / pursued / SpEz(E)liN / L unknown + Ecf marked by precise exact purveyor mystifying : difficult to understand. accordance with the details of n The puzzling directions in the codes or conventions. / pE(r)SvCE(r) / instruction manual rendered it Inflexible people often pay L > F > E useless. punctilious attention to rules of one who provides supplies of food etiquette. or whose business is to make pylon provisions for the table : caterer. n punctual The reception was delayed because / SpITlBn / adj the purveyor got stuck in traffic. Gk / SpEN(k)ch(Ew)El / a tower for supporting either end of L pusillanimous a wire over a long span. marked by exact adherence to an adj The steel pylon at the north end of appointed time. / TpyVsESlanEmEs / the footbridge was showing Everybody was punctual for the L dangerous signs of wear. wedding, and all behaved lacking or showing a lack of charmingly. courage, manly strength, and pyramid resolution : marked by mean- n punctuation spirited and contemptible timidity. / SpirETmid / Edgar never forgave his brother’s Gk punditry pusillanimous desertion during the an ancient massive structure of war. huge stone blocks found especially pungent in Egypt having typically a square adj putrescent ground plan, outside walls in the / SpEnjEnt / adj form of four triangles that meet in a L / pyVStresFnt / point at the top, and inner causing a sharp sensation : L sepulchral chambers. pricking, irritating, acrid. decaying, rotting. The sight of a pyramid on the The pungent odor of wet dog sent The disagreeable odor was coming desert horizon took Rico’s breath the guests out for fresh air. from the putrescent skunk carcass. away. punishment pyre punitive purgatory

Page 205 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently pyrethrum quadragenarian quagmire n n n / pISrGthrEm / / TkwBdrEjDSna(a)rGEn / / SkwagTmI(E)r / Gk > L L unknown + ON > E any of various chrysanthemums a person who is 40 or more and less a complex or precarious position with finely divided and often than 50 years old. where disengagement is difficult. aromatic leaves. Evelyn became a grandmother In his position as protocol officer, The pyrethrum is a source of a while she was a quadragenarian. Russell often found himself in a natural insecticide. quagmire of delicate relationships. quadrangle pyretogenic n quail adj / SkwBTdraNgEl / n / TpirEtPSjenik / L > F > E / SkwCl / Gk a square or rectangular enclosure or L > F > E inducing fever. court especially when surrounded a migratory game bird of Europe, Because Jamie’s illness was not by buildings (as in some schools Asia, and Africa that is about seven pyretogenic, his mom did not and colleges). inches long. initially believe that he was sick. Norm sailed a pie tin across the The vintner decided to name his quadrangle. wine after the quail because the pyrite birds were so plentiful on his quadrant property. pyrosis n quadrennial qualitative / pISrPsDs / adj Gk quadrilateral / SkwBlETtCZiv / heartburn. n L Gill had a wicked case of pyrosis / TkwBdrESlaZErEl / of, relating to, or involving quality after eating at Billy Joe Bob’s Char L or kind. and Grill. a plane figure of four sides and Although the essay was judged to consequently four angles. be short quantitatively, it was a pyrotechnics The perimeter of a baseball qualitative masterpiece. n pl diamond forms a quadrilateral. / TpIrEStekniks / qualm Gk quadrille a display of fireworks. n quandary The amusement park had a show / kwBSdril / n including pyrotechnics every night. F / SkwBnd(E)rG / a four-handed form of a card game unknown Pyrrhic played throughout Europe in the a state of perplexity or doubt : adj 17th and 18th centuries. dilemma. / Spirik / Mrs. Bates was a very old lady, Taylor’s advice left Miriam in more Gk > L almost past everything but tea and of a quandary than she was in [has homonym: pyric] of, relating quadrille. when she sought his help. to, or resembling that of Pyrrhus, a king who sustained heavy losses in quadrumanous quantum defeating the Romans. adj When the team’s star quarterback / kwBSdrVmEnEs / quarantine broke his leg in the game it won L against its toughest rival, the win having four hands. quarrel was indeed a Pyrrhic victory. Luke complained that a bass player would have to be quadrumanous to quarrelsome quackery master the piece he was given to adj play. / SkwOr(E)lsEm / L > F > E + E apt or disposed to argue : contentious. If Angie weren’t so quarrelsome, she might have more friends.

Page 206 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently quarry quenelle quest n n quartz / kESnel / / Skwest / G > F L > F > E quash a ball or oval of meat stuffing an act or instance of searching : cooked in boiling water or stock expedition, pursuit, venture. quasi and served as a garnish or as a In “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” separate dish. the horseman rides forth to the quaternion Martha served a quenelle of scene of battle in nightly quest of n chicken in brown onion sauce as an his head. / kwEStErnGEn / appetizer. L question a set of four parts, things, or quercitron v persons. n / Skwes(h)chEn / The auto parts store offered a / SkwErTsitrEn / L special price on a quaternion of L express doubt about : dispute. tires. a black oak or the bark of this tree Corporal Sage decided he had to used in tanning and dyeing. question Sergeant McGonigle’s quatorzain When used as a dye, quercitron orders. n turns fabrics yellow. / kEStOrTzCn / questionnaire F querimonious a poem of 14 lines that resembles a adj queue sonnet but lacks strict sonnet / TkwerESmPnGEs / structure. L queuer When his English teacher was habitually complaining. satisfied with Walter’s quatorzain, Luther was known for his quibble she encouraged him to write a querimonious temperament. sonnet. quiche quern n quatrefoil n / SkGsh / n / SkwErn / G > F / SkaZE(r)TfOil / E a baked custard pie usually having F a primitive mill for grinding grain an added savory ingredient (as a conventionalized representation consisting of two circular stones chopped ham, seafood, or of a flower with four petals or of a with the upper one being turned by vegetables). leaf with four leaflets. hand. Lois served soup and a seafood The Gothic window featured a Some Tibetan villagers still grind quiche for lunch today. quatrefoil at the top of its arch. wheat into flour by using a quern. quiddity quay querulous n adj / SkwidEZG / quell / Skwer(y)ElEs / L L the essential nature or ultimate quench expressing or suggestive of form of something. v complaint : fretful, whining. The photographer was noted for / Skwench / As the crow fluttered from the tree, her ability to capture the quiddity E it gave a loud, querulous caw. of her subjects. put out (as a fire or a light). For three days the firefighters tried querulously quidnunc to quench the blaze. n query / SkwidTnENk / L one that is avidly curious and given to speculating especially about ephemeral or petty things. Every neighborhood seems to have a quidnunc.

Page 207 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently quiescent quintessence quodlibet n n quietus / kwinStesFn(t)s / / SkwBdlETbet / n L L / kwISGZEs / the most typical example or a subtle or debatable point; L representative : the consummate especially : a theological or final discharge or acquittance (as instance (as of a quality or class). scholastic question proposed for from debt or obligation) : final To be steadfast in the face of argument or disputation. settlement. mortal danger is the quintessence The best students in the philosophy The judge is expected to rule of courage. seminar were often given a tomorrow on a quietus in Mr. quodlibet to sharpen their debating Ford’s civil case. quirt skills. n quincentennial / SkwErt / quokka L > Sp n quincunx a riding whip with a short handle / SkwBkE / n and a rawhide lash. Australian name / SkwinTkEN(k)s / Eager to get home, Juanita urged a stocky Australian reddish or L her horse on by using the quirt. chestnut brown wallaby with a an arrangement of five things with short tail—called also “short-tailed one at each corner and one in the quisling wallaby.” middle of a square. n Meggie’s pet quokka wanted to Any nine-block square of a / SkwizliN / follow her everywhere. chessboard will include a quincunx Norw name of either black or white blocks. a traitorous national who aids the quomodo invader of his country and often n quinine serves as chief agent or puppet / SkwPmETdP / n governor. L / SkwITnIn / Many French citizens thought that means, manner. Quechua > Sp Marshal Petain, head of the Vichy Devon claims that he lacks the a bitter alkaloid derived from regime during World War II, was quomodo to repay Philip before cinchona bark and used in medicine little better than a quisling. next month. especially in the form of bitter salts to reduce fever. quiver quondam Quinine was a common remedy n adj when Dr. Prentice was young. / SkwivE(r) / / SkwBndEm / Gmc > F > AF > E L quinquennial [Note: The definition provided is having been formerly. adj not the one most commonly Jared and his quondam stepbrother / kwinSkwenGEl / associated with this word.] a case are still the best of friends. L + L for carrying arrows. occurring at the end of every five The archer slung his quiver over quorum years. his shoulder and set out in search n The philanthropist makes a of deer. / SkwPrEm / quinquennial gift to the school. L quixotic the number of members of an quinsyberry organization who when assembled n quizzical can legally transact business in the / SkwinzGTberG / absence of the other members. Gk > L > F > E + E quizzically There were not enough members an Old World black currant. adv present at the school board meeting Edgar mashed a quinsyberry on his / SkwizDk(E)lG / to constitute a quorum, so no sister’s new yellow dress. unknown + Ecff voting took place. in a questioning, curious manner. Martin sat with his head quizzically quotation tilted as the algebra teacher was explaining the new concept.

Page 208 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently quotidian raconteur ragout adj n n / kwPStidGEn / / TraTkBnStEr / / raSgV / L F L > F commonplace, ordinary. one who excels in telling anecdotes meat and vegetables well seasoned Thelma rebelled against her : storyteller. in a thick rich usually brown sauce. quotidian existence. Mr. Backstrom is the resident The rich ragout made a complete raconteur at the county library. meal. quotient n radarscope raillery / SkwPshEnt / n n L / SrCdBrTskPp / / SrClErG / the number resulting from the E acronym + Gk F division of one number by another. the oscilloscope or screen serving good-natured ridicule : mockery. In the equation 48 ÷ by 4 = 12, 12 as the visual indicator in a radar The new students soon became is the quotient. receiver. accustomed to the raillery of their The pilot relied on the radarscope dormitory mates. rabbinate to fly through the storm safely. raiment Rabelaisian radiant n adj adj / SrCmEnt / / TrabESlCzGEn / / SrCdGEnt / E F name L clothing, garments. marked by or manifesting a gross marked by or expressive of joy, The stranger’s raiment was well- robust humor or extravagance of pleasure, love, confidence, or worn but clean and pressed. caricature, characteristic of the happiness. French humorist François Rabelais. Emily looked positively radiant raisiny In the 19th century many writers, when she saw her newborn sister adj including Mark Twain, were for the first time. / SrCzFnG / criticized for having a Rabelaisian L > F > E view of life. radical containing or resembling sun-dried adj grapes. rachiometer / SradDkEl / Taylor enjoyed the raisiny trail n L > E mix. / TrCkGSBmEZE(r) / characterized by a significant Gk difference from the norm: extreme. rambunctious an instrument for measuring spinal The new governor promised radical adj curvatures. changes in the state’s welfare / ramSbEN(k)shEs / When Kate complained of back system. E problems, her orthopedist used a excessively exuberant : wild, rachiometer to examine her spine. radicchio uncontrollable. n Nothing pleases a group of racketeer / raSdikGP / rambunctious youngsters more n L > It than a good pillow fight. / TrakESti(E)r / a chicory of a red variety with imit? variegated leaves that is used as a ramellose one who extorts money or salad green. adj advantages by threats of violence Instead of lettuce, Angela always / SramETlPs / or blackmail. uses radicchio in her salads. L The Justice Department was having little branches. successful in prosecuting the radioactivity In the biology lab Carla observed racketeer for tax evasion. the ramellose extremities of radius freshwater algae.

ragamuffin

raglan

Page 209 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently ramification rantipole rascette n adj n / TramEfDSkCshEn / / SrantGTpPl / / raSset / L D? + G > E? Ar > L > F a resulting development : characterized by a wild unruly a line crossing the wrist below the consequence. manner or attitude. palm of the hand that is sometimes Tina felt that the only negative The antics of the rantipole bear held by palmists to provide ramification of accepting the job cubs amused the zoo visitors. additional indication of a strong or offer was that she would have to weak constitution. take a pay cut. rapacious Madame Xantha peered closely at Helen’s rascette and told her she rampage rapier would live to be 100. v / SramTpCj / rappelling rasgado Scots n act, rush, or storm wildly or rapport / rBsSgB(T)dP / excitedly. n L > Sp Crazed fans began to rampage in / raSpP(E)r / the arpeggio effect produced by the streets after their team won the F sweeping the strings with the championship. relation characterized by harmony, thumb in guitar playing. accord, or affinity. Rod ended his guitar solo with a rampant Mr. Sanchez works hard to achieve resounding rasgado. adj rapport with all his students. / SrampEnt / rasorial F rapprochement marked by the absence of check or n raspberry restraint. / TraTprPshSmBM / n A rampant smallpox epidemic F / SrazTberG / decimated the population. establishment or a state of cordial unknown + E relations. any of various usually black or red ramshackle The rapprochement between the sweet juicy edible berries. adj country’s two religious groups The raspberry is highly prized for / SramTshakEl / suffered a setback when members making jams and preserves. ON > E of one group bombed a church that appearing as if ready to collapse : belonged to the other group. ratafia dilapidated, rickety. n Bonnie heard strange noises rapscallion / TraZESfGE / coming from the ramshackle house F next door. raptatorial a small sweet biscuit made from almond paste. rancid rapturous May ate a ratafia with her coffee adj adj for breakfast. / Sran(t)sDd / / SrapchErEs / L L rataplan having an offensive smell or taste feeling, expressing, or marked by n usually from chemical change or ecstasy : ecstatic. / TraZESplan / decomposition. Cecilia always became rapturous F After a month at room temperature, during the final movement of the iterative sound of beating (as most cheese will be rancid. Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. from a drum or the hooves of a galloping horse). rancorous One verse of the song required the campers around the bonfire to ransack make a rataplan by clapping their hands and slapping each thigh in ransom turn.

Page 210 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently ratatouille ravenous rebellion n adj / rAtAtVy / / Srav(E)nEs / reboant L > F F a stew made of eggplant, tomatoes, craving for satisfaction or rebote green peppers, squash, and gratification. sometimes meat. The children tore into the meal with rebuttal Marnie used vegetables from her a ravenous hunger. n own garden to make the ratatouille. / rDSbEZFl / ravigote F > E rathskeller n the act of contradicting. n / rAvGSgOt / Dennis’s convincing rebuttal sent / SrBtTskelE(r) / L > F Oscar home in a huff. G a sauce or dressing colored green a restaurant located usually below with spinach puree and seasoned recalcitrant the street level and patterned after with vinegar and a mixture of adj the cellar or basement of a German herbs. / rDSkalsEtrEnt / city hall. The specialty of the seafood brunch L There are three good restaurants was shrimp ravigote. obstinately defiant of authority or on this block, but college students restraint : stubbornly disobedient. seem to prefer the rathskeller. ravine An extremely recalcitrant adolescent, Tommy rejects ratification ravioli everything any authority figure n says. ratihabition / TravGSPlG / L > It recapitulate ratiocinate alimentary paste made in little v v shells or cases and stuffed (as with / TrGkESpichETlCt / / TraZGSPsFnTCt / cheese, spinach, or meat). L L Fletcher bought a package of repeat the principal points of : reason according to a logical frozen spinach ravioli and a jar of restate briefly : give a summary of. process. tomato sauce. It is customary for Professor Burns A philosopher should ratiocinate to recapitulate his lecture at the strictly and rigorously. rawinsonde end of class. ratiocination razzia receipt ration realpolitik receive n rational / rCSBlTpPlGStGk / recension (L + Gk) > G n rationale politics based on practical factors / rDSsenchEn / as distinguished from theoretical L raucous objectives. a critical revision of a text (as of an adj Some analysts credit realpolitik for ancient author) by an editor. / SrOkEs / the increase in voter participation. Patricia recently read a modern L recension of Dante’s Inferno. disagreeably harsh or strident. realschule Up in one of the elms an old black receptacle crow gave its raucous cry. reappraisal recess ravel rebarbative adj / rGSbBrbEZiv / L serving or tending to repel or irritate. Teresa complained that she found the school play rebarbative.

Page 211 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently recidivism recognizance redingote n n / rDSsidETvizEm / / rDSkBgnEzEn(t)s / redolent L + Ecff L > F > E adj repeated relapse into criminal or an obligation of record entered into / SredFlEnt / delinquent habits. before a court or magistrate L > F > E Unemployment of ex-convicts is at requiring the performance of an act conveying an aura : tending to the root of much of the recidivism (as appearance in court) usually suggest. that leads to overcrowded prisons. under penalty of a money Every page of Ryan’s essay is forfeiture. redolent of fine scholarship. recipe The suspect was arraigned the next n morning and released on his own redoppe / SresE(T)pG / recognizance. n L / rESdBp / a formula for cooking or preparing recommendation L > It > F something to be eaten or drunk. a show-ring movement in which a Chuck’s chili recipe is a closely recondite horse gallops in circles whose guarded secret. adj diameter never exceeds ten feet. / SrekEnTdIt / The last movement in Thunder’s recipient L performance was a fast redoppe. very difficult to understand and reciprocal beyond the reach of ordinary redoubtable adj comprehension and knowledge. adj / rDSsiprEkEl / Mansur chose the recondite subject / rDSdaUZEbEl / L + Ecf of quantum mechanics for his F > E consisting of or functioning as a paper. inspiring awe or reverence : august, return in kind. eminent. James is truly unselfish, always recreant Mount Rushmore is a fitting ready to help without expecting memorial to four redoubtable reciprocal benefit. recrementitious statesmen. reciprocity recrudescence reductase n / TresESprBsEZG / recrudescent redundancy L adj mutual dependence, action, or / TrGkrVSdesFnt / referee influence. L A treaty of reciprocity called for breaking out again : renewing referential the lowering of protective tariffs by disease or dangerous activity after both countries. abatement, suppression, or refluence cessation. recital Because of the recrudescent nature refocillate of tuberculosis, those who have v recluse been exposed to this disease should / rGSfBsETlCt / n be tested for it periodically. L / SreTklVs / refresh, revive. L recuperate Mom hopes that a good watering one who leads a retired or solitary v will refocillate her drooping ferns. life. / rDSk(y)VpETrCt / Alison was shocked when the old L refuge recluse next door called to invite recover health or strength. n her for tea. Aaron spent a month in Florida to / Sre(T)fyVj / recuperate after the campaign. L > F > E shelter or protection from danger or recurrence distress. The high hills are a refuge for wild recurrent goats.

recusant refugium

Page 212 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently refulgent regimen rejuvenescence n regale / SrejEmEn / relegate v L v / rDSgCl / a systematic plan designed to / SrelETgCt / F improve and maintain health. L entertain (as a person) sumptuously Cassandra’s regimen includes [has homonym: religate] degrade, or agreeably : feast with delicacies. getting at least seven hours of sleep demote. The hostess will regale her bridge per night. The coach decided to relegate the club members with a variety of quarterback to second string after delightful homemade desserts. regurgitate his poor performance in the game. v regardless / rDSgErjETtCt / reliable L regatta throw, cast, or pour back or out relic n again. n / rDSgBZE / Brenda watched the redbird / Srelik / It regurgitate food to feed his L an organized series of rowing, nestlings. an object (as a bone, an article of speedboat, or sailing races. clothing or of personal use) kept in The famous rowing regatta at rehabilitation esteem and veneration because of Henley-on-Thames has been held n its association with a saint or each year since 1839. / TrG(h)ETbilEStCshEn / martyr. L The Shroud of Turin is the most reggae the process of restoring an famous relic in Christendom, in n individual (as a convict, mental spite of its disputed history. / SrC(T)gC / patient, or disaster victim) to a unknown useful and constructive place in relinquish a popular music of Jamaican origin society. that combines indigenous styles The penitentiary employed reliquary with elements of rock ’n’ roll and psychologists and educators to help soul music and is performed with in the rehabilitation of the remainder the accent on the offbeat. prisoners. The video travelogue about reminisce Jamaica included a soundtrack of rehearsal v reggae. n / TremESnis / / rDShErsEl / L&F regicide E indulge in the practice of thinking n a private recital or practice session about past experiences. / SrejETsId / held in preparation for a public The old photographs prompted L appearance. Grandpa to reminisce about his the killing or murder of a king. Roland was somewhat nervous youth. The peasants resorted to regicide during his first rehearsal with the when their pleas were ignored by New York City Ballet. reminiscence the tyrannical monarch. reindeer reminiscingly regime n reiterate renaissance / rCSzhGm / v n L > F / rGSiZETrCt / / TrenESsBn(t)s / the period during which a L L > F government or social system say or do over repeatedly. enthusiastic activity along literary, prevails. The new teacher decided to artistic, and cultural lines During the communist regime in reiterate each point of the lesson at distinguished by a revival of Romania, environmental problems the end of the period so that the interest in the past and an were flagrantly ignored. students could not claim they increasing pursuit of learning. missed the information. In the 1970s, there was a renaissance of interest in organic rejoice gardening techniques.

Page 213 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently render repaint repetitious v adj / SrendE(r) / reparation / TrepEStishEs / L > F > E L melt down : extract or clarify by repartee marked by the act of repeating melting. n something already said or done. The process of cooking a few strips / repE(r)StG / Bettina complained that her piano of bacon can render enough fat to F lessons were repetitious. fry several eggs. a succession of clever retorts. Susie and Josh’s repartee is so replaceable rendezvous excessive that even their friends n tire quickly of the constant retorts. replevin / SrBndETvV / n F repechage / rDSplevDn / a meeting at an appointed place and n L? > F time. / TrepESshBzh / the return to or recovery by a The astronauts completed a L > F person of goods claimed to be rendezvous with the orbiting space a second-chance trial heat (as in wrongfully taken or detained upon station. Olympic rowing) in which losers in the person’s giving security to try the first round of competition are the matter in court and return the renege given another chance to qualify for goods if defeated in the action. the semifinals. Before the goods could be moved renounce Luigi fell behind in the first heat of from the warehouse, the judge v the single sculls, but he hoped to issued a writ of replevin. / rDSnaUn(t)s / make up for it in the repechage. L repository [has near homonym: renowns] repercussions announce one’s abandonment of reprehensible the ownership of : give up, repertoire adj abandon, or resign usually formally n / TreprDShen(t)sEbEl / (something possessed). / SrepE(r)TtwBr / L > E In 1936 Edward, Prince of Wales, L > F deserving rebuke or reprimand : decided to renounce his claim to a list or supply of pieces or parts censurable. the throne of England and marry that a company or person has This amiable, upright, perfect Jane American divorcée Wallis Simpson. thoroughly rehearsed and is Fairfax was apparently cherishing prepared to perform. very reprehensible feelings. renovation The folk dance troupe has added several Balkan dances to its represent renovator repertoire. n reprieve / SrenETvCZE(r) / repertory n L n / rDSprGv / one that restores to a former state / SrepE(r)TtPrG / F? (as worn or damaged articles). L a formal suspension of the The Rehmers hired a renovator to the practice of presenting with a execution of a sentence especially work on the old farmhouse they resident company a number of of death. bought. different productions (as plays or Bowing to public pressure, the dances) during a season either governor granted a reprieve to the renvoi successively or alternately. convict awaiting execution. n The ballet company is presenting / renSvOi / four productions in repertory this F winter. the return by a government of an alien to his own country. Because of crowded prisons, New York has been practicing renvoi on illegal aliens who have committed a crime.

Page 214 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently reprimand rescue resipiscence v v n / SreprETmand / / Sre(T)skyV / / TresESpisFn(t)s / L > F L > F > E L reprove severely : chide for a fault : free from confinement, violence, change of mind or heart; often : censure formally and especially danger, or evil : save, deliver. return to a sane, sound, or correct with authority. Three lifeguards dived into the pool view or position. Dean felt guilty as he began to to rescue the flailing girl. The soldier’s severe war reprimand Shirley; was the blame experience brought about in him a partially his? reservoir resipiscence marked by much n regret for shortcomings in his repristinate / SrezEvTwBr / personal life. v L > F / rGSpristETnCt / a place where water is collected resistible L and kept in quantity for use when restore to an original state or wanted. resolute condition : revive. Because of the dry spell, our adj Barb and Ray spent the better part reservoir was only half full, and / SrezETlVt / of the summer working to water restrictions had to be L repristinate the old farm house. imposed. having or characterized by a decided purpose : determined. reproach residential Jody remained resolute in his v decision to resign from the / rDSprPch / residual committee. F > E rebuke strongly or sternly : scold. residue respiratory Van hoped that Mrs. Krishnan n wouldn’t reproach him in front of / SrezETd(y)V / respite the whole lunchroom crowd. L n the part of a molecule that remains / SrespDt / reptilian after the removal of a portion of its L > F constituents. temporary intermission of labor or requiescence Sondra asked Jeff to analyze and of any process or write out the formula for the operation : interval of rest. requisite residue in the Erlenmeyer flask. Seeking respite from the arguing of adj his siblings, Jerold left the table in / SrekwEzDt / residuum the middle of their family dinner. L required by the nature of things or resiliency resplendence by circumstances or by the end in n n view. / rDSzilyEnsG / / rDSsplendEn(t)s / Buried under a calmness that L + Ecff L > E seemed all but indifference was an capability of a strained body to the quality or state of shining attachment that would have led recover its size and shape after brilliantly. either of the two brothers, if deformation caused especially by The resplendence of the sunset over requisite, to do everything for the compressive stress. Loon Lake enticed Eric to stay one good of the other. A pole vaulter must adjust to the more day. resiliency of his pole. rescind restauratrice v resilient n / rDSsind / / TrestErEStrGs / L resinous L repeal. a woman who operates or owns a The new bill would rescind several public eating place. outdated laws. While Ted and Sue were dining, the restauratrice came to their table to rescindable ask for their comments on the food and service.

Page 215 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently restitution reticule revanche n n restitutory / SreZETkyVl / / rDSvBnch / adj L F / TrestEStVZErG / a woman’s small drawstring bag the policy of a government intent L used as a pocketbook, workbag, or on the recovery of lost territory. of, relating to, or aiming at the carryall. Under the domination of the USSR, return of something to its rightful Mrs. Bates folded up a letter which tendencies toward revanche were owner. she had been reading and returned kept under tight control. The judge’s verdict included it into the purple and gold reticule punitive as well as restitutory by her side. reveille features. retina revenant resurgence n adj / SretFnE / / SrevEnEnt / resurgent L > E F adj the multilayered innermost lining coming back : recurring. / rDSsErjEnt / of the eyeball that contains various The more Rachel tries to put the L types of photoreceptive cells that revenant dream out of her mind, rising again from an inferior state are connected to the brain via the the more often it recurs. to a superior state. optic nerve. The former Soviet republic is The ophthalmologist treated Mrs. revenue experiencing resurgent Simpson for a detached retina. n nationalism. / SrevETn(y)V / retinue L resurrection n the income that comes back from / SretFnT(y)V / an investment. resuscitate L > F > E The revenue from Maria’s rental v a train of attendants. property enabled her to buy a / rDSsEsETtCt / The actress obtained coveted vacation cabin. L awards ceremony tickets for her revive from apparent death or from entire retinue. reverberate unconsciousness. v A young intern pushed through the retractile / rDSvErbETrCt / crowd to resuscitate the L unconscious child. retribution continue or become repeated in or n as if in a series of echoes. resuscitation / TretrESbyVshEn / Kevin stood on one side of the L canyon, yelled as loudly as he reticence something given or exacted in could, and waited for his voice to n compensation. reverberate. / SreZDsEn(t)s / Art felt certain that his fender L > F bender was divine retribution for revere restraint in speaking or all the times he had honked his communicating : reserve. horn impatiently at other drivers. reverence Jordan’s usual reticence disappears when he sits at the retrocedence reversible radio microphone. n adj / TretrESsGdFn(t)s / / rDSvErsEbEl / L L > F > E the act of ceding back typically by made to be worn either side out and treaty. often with a different fabric on each In 1997 the British government side. completed the retrocedence of Mark’s reversible vest matches Hong Kong to China. everything else in his wardrobe.

retrogress reviviscent

Page 216 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently rhabdomancer rhinarium rhombus n n n / SrabdETman(t)sE(r) / / rISna(a)rGEm / / SrBmbEs / Gk Gk > L Gk > L one who practices divination by the hairless area of roughened skin an equilateral parallelogram. rods or wands. at the tip of the snout of a mammal. The most familiar form that a With his divining rod in hand, the Vince checked the puppy’s rhombus takes must certainly be a rhabdomancer set out to find an temperature by touching its square. undiscovered spring of water. rhinarium. rhubarb rhapsodical rhinestone n adj n / SrVTbBrb / / rapSsBdDkEl / / SrInzTtPn / (Gk + L) > L? > F > E Gk geog name + E a plant having large leaves with extravagantly emotional : a colorless imitation stone of high thick succulent stems that are often rapturous. luster made of glass, paste, or gem eaten in pies or preserves. The music critic lavished quartz. Rhubarb and strawberries make a rhapsodical praise on the Brahms Basil didn’t bother looking for the good combination for a pie. concert. rhinestone that fell out of his belt buckle. rhythm rheostat n n rhinoceros / SriLEm / / SrGETstat / n Gk > L > F Gk / rISnBs(E)rEs / the aspect of music comprising all a resistor for regulating a current by Gk the elements (as accent, meter, means of variable resistances. any of various large powerful time, tempo) that relate to forward The light dimmer has refused to herbivorous thick-skinned movement as contrasted with pitch work ever since Henry adjusted the mammals that have one or two sequence or tone combination. rheostat. heavy upright horns on the snout. Latin American music is usually The videotape showed dramatic easily recognizable by its rhetoric footage of a rhinoceros charging a distinctive rhythm. photographer. rhetorician ribald n rhizotomy adj / TreZESrishEn / / SribEld / Gk rhodium Gmc > F > E one who writes or speaks in an characterized by broad coarse inflated or bombastic style. rhododendron humor. People tend to ignore Mr. Wade’s n Sharon’s mom was surprised to good ideas because he is such a / TrPdESdendrEn / learn that the ribald tale her rhetorician. Gk daughter was reading was written any of various plants of the genus by Geoffrey Chaucer. rheumatism Rhododendron with persistent n leathery leaves and bell-shaped ricochet / SrVmETtizEm / flowers. n Gk Evan’s mother plants a / SrikETshC / any of numerous conditions rhododendron along the driveway F characterized by inflammation or every year on his birthday. a glancing rebound or skipping (as pain in muscles, joints, or fibrous of a flat stone thrown along the tissue. rhomboid surface of water). Shea’s grandfather complained of n Albert and Tyler carefully counted rheumatism whenever the weather / SrBmTbOid / each ricochet in the stone-skipping was cold and damp. Gk > L > F contest. a parallelogram in which the angles are oblique and adjacent sides are unequal. One of our geometry problems was to find the area of a rhomboid.

Page 217 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently ricotta rigorous roan n adj / rGSkOZE / rime / SrPn / L > It n Gothic > Sp > F a white unripened whey cheese of / SrIm / [has near homonym: rowan] of an Italian origin that resembles cottage E animal’s coat : having the base cheese. [has homonym: rhyme] a covering color (as black, red, gray, or Angela’s favorite Italian recipe of minute ice crystals on a cold brown) muted and lightened by a calls for ravioli stuffed with ricotta. surface that is formed by the liberal admixture of white hairs. condensation of atmospheric vapor The roan pony is the tamest mount rictus at temperatures below freezing : at Camp Wannagohome. n frost. / SriktEs / Rime may occur in large, feathery roborant L flakes, but they lack the crystalline adj a gaping grin or grimace. patterns of snowflakes. / SrBbErEnt / Reuben’s face was frozen in a L rictus of horror during the movie’s riparian strengthening. last scene. adj In China, ginseng has for ages / rDSperGEn / been esteemed for its roborant rideau L effects on the body. n [Note: Could be confused with / rDSdP / riparial.] of, relating to, or living or rococo F located on the bank of a adj a small ridge or mound of earth. watercourse (as a river or stream). / rESkP(T)kP / The cottage was built on a rideau Most wildlife depends on riparian F overlooking the marsh. areas for survival. excessively ornate or intricate. The rococo decor of Griselda’s ridiculous risibility new house is typical of those built n with “new money.” rifeness / TrizESbilEZG / L rodomont rift the ability or inclination to laugh : n n alertness or sensitiveness to the / SrBdETmBnt / / Srift / ridiculous, incongruous, or absurd. It name Scand > E Mary’s risibility has earned her the a vain or blustering boaster. a divergence (as of interests or nickname “Giggle Girl.” James’s new roommate is beliefs) resulting in disagreement something of a rodomont. or dispute. rissole Deciding what the puppy should be n rognon named caused a temporary rift / rDSsPl / between the twins. L > F rogue [has near homonym: resole] n rigatoni minced meat or fish covered with / SrPg / n pastry and fried in deep fat. unknown / TrigEStPnG / Marianne ate a rissole for lunch. a dishonest unprincipled person. Gmc > It The sheriff warned the newcomers hollow alimentary paste made in ritziness that he would not tolerate a rogue short curved fluted pieces. in his town. Paula served rigatoni stuffed with riverain cheese and diced vegetables. roleo rivulet n righteous n / SrPlGTP / adj / SrivyElDt / L > F > E&E / SrIchEs / L > It a logrolling tournament. E a small stream : brook. A roleo is similar to a rodeo but characterized by uprightness or The fast-melting snow gushed down has floating logs instead of bucking justice. the rivulet to the pond below. broncos. The civil rights protesters were fearless in their righteous cause. romance

Page 218 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently rondache rough rubella n adj n / rBnSdash / / SrEf / / rVSbelE / F E L a small shield carried by a foot [has homonym: ruff] difficult to an acute contagious disease usually soldier. travel over or penetrate. affecting children and young adults In medieval warfare the rondache The rough waters off its coast made and characterized by a red skin often had a slit in the upper part for the island a bane for sailors. eruption, mild symptoms, and a seeing through. short duration : German measles. roughhewn Rubella is especially dangerous roommate when contracted by an expectant roulette mother because it can threaten the Rorschach n health of her unborn child. n / rVSlet / / SrP(E)rTshBk / L > F rubicund Swiss name a gambling game in which players a psychological test of personality bet on which compartment of a rubric and intelligence using inkblot revolving wheel a small ball spun n designs. in the opposite direction will come / SrV(T)brik / Keesha’s responses during the to rest in. L Rorschach caused the examiner to Bonita spent the entire time on the name, title. believe that she was trying to make riverboat playing roulette. The fields of botany, zoology, and the results unreliable. geology were once classified roundelay together under the rubric of roseola n “natural history.” / SraUndETlC / rotisserie F rudimentary n a folk or ritual group or couple adj / rPStisErG / dance in which participants form a / TrVdESmentErG / F ring and move in a prescribed L a cooking appliance with a spit on direction. basic, fundamental. which food is rotated before or over The roundelay dates back to Thurston possessed only a a source of heat. prehistoric times, when people rudimentary knowledge of opera. Herb cooked the chicken on a danced around a central totem. rotisserie over his gas grill. ruminant ruade n rotogravure / SrVmEnEnt / n rubefacient L / TrPZEgrESvyU(E)r / n any of a suborder of even-toed L + F / TrVbESfCshEnt / hoofed mammals (as sheep, a photogravure process in which L giraffes, deer, and camels) that the impression is produced by a a substance for external application chew the cud and have a complex rotary press. that causes redness of the skin. usually four-chambered stomach. Rotogravure is used to print the Isopropyl alcohol is a well-known Microorganisms play an essential magazine section of the Sunday rubefacient found in many people’s role in the digestive system of a paper. medicine cabinets. ruminant. rotundity rumored n / rPStEndEZG / rumormonger L n roundness. / SrVmE(r)TmBNgE(r) / When he looked in the fun-house L + Gk > L > E mirror, Chris was astounded by his one that spreads unconfirmed rotundity. pieces of information. If Alfonso doesn’t learn to hold his tongue, he’s going to earn a reputation as a rumormonger.

Page 219 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently runnel sable saccadic n adj rural / SsCbEl / / saSkBdik / adj Slav > G > F > E F / SrUrEl / [Note: The definition provided is [has near homonym: psychotic] of L not the one most commonly or relating to a sudden movement : of, relating to, associated with, or associated with this word.] the jerky. typical of the country. heraldic color black. Virginia’s saccadic motions were Kevin has always resided in the city Anita began painting her family’s symptomatic of a neurological and knows little about the rural coat of arms by creating a disorder. way of life. background of sable. saccharify rurigenous sabotage adj n sacciform / rUSrijEnEs / / SsabETtBzh / adj L F / Ssak(s)ETfOrm / born or living in the country. malicious destruction of or damage L As the town grew, some of the to property with the intention of resembling a pouch. stores began to neglect their injuring a business or impairing the The squirrel filled its sacciform rurigenous customers. economic system or weakening a cheeks with acorns. government or nation in time of russet war or national emergency. sacerdocy adj When a drug enforcement agency n / SrEsDt / airplane crashed, sabotage was / SsasE(r)TdPsG / L > F > E suspected and an investigation was L reddish brown. launched. priesthood. Troy’s Robin Hood costume Will announced in a letter to his featured a russet top and forest saboteur sister that he felt a calling to the green pants. sacerdocy. sacalait rutabaga n sacerdotal n / SsakETlC / adj / SrVZETbCgE / Choctaw > F / TsasE(r)SdPZFl / ON > Sw a crappie that is typically smaller L a turnip with a very large yellowish and more silvery than the black of or relating to priests or a root that is used as food both for crappie and that is highly esteemed priesthood. stock and for human beings. as a food fish. Some types of sacerdotal clothing In England, the vegetable Ray and Moira went to the French distinguish the clergy from the Americans know as a rutabaga is Quarter to dine on sacalait and laity, and some signify rank within called a “swede.” cornbread. the priesthood. rutch saccade sachet n n rutilant / saSkBd / / saSshC / adj F F / SrVZFlEnt / a small rapid jerky movement of [has homonym: sashay] a small L the eye especially as it jumps from bag or packet; especially : a small having a reddish glow : shining. fixation on one point to another (as bag containing a perfumed powder The evening sun put a rutilant in reading). that is used to scent clothes. sheen on the sunbathers’ skin. Mary felt that her eyes could not Aunt Kate keeps a sachet in her take one more saccade, so she clothes closet. sabbatical closed them during the remainder of the PowerPoint presentation. sacralize

Page 220 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently sacrifice sagacious salami v adj n / SsakrETfIs / / sESgCshEs / / sESlBmG / L L L > It [Note: The definition provided is possessing quick intellectual a highly seasoned sausage made of not the one most commonly perceptions. pork and beef. associated with this word.] bunt in The neighbors often came to the Randy made a sandwich of salami baseball with fewer than two out, sagacious old man for advice about and cheese. enabling a base runner to advance a investments. base while the batter is put out at salesclerk first base. sagacity The coach told Marvin to sacrifice n salicetum because George was on third base / sESgasEZG / n and the team needed one more run L / TsalESsGZEm / to win. quickness or acuteness of sense L perceptions. a collection or plantation of sacrificial Chuck’s sagacity made him the willows. finest detective in the arson unit. The salicetum is Nikki’s favorite sacristy picnic spot. sagathy sacroiliac salicylate sagebrush sacrosanct salient adj sagittal / SsakrPsaN(k)t / adj saline L / SsajEZFl / most holy or sacred : inviolable. L salivary The use of loud voices is of, relating to, or shaped like an inappropriate in the sacrosanct arrow or arrowhead. salmon temple. Murray fantasized that the sagittal n rock he found in the quarry was an / SsamEn / safari Indian arrowhead. L > F > E n a variable color of salmon’s flesh / sESfBrG / Sagittarius averaging a strong yellowish pink. Ar > Swahili n Unable to find a purse in the right a hunting or other expedition in / TsajESta(a)rGEs / shade of salmon, Vera decided to east Africa, especially on foot. L stick with basic black. While on safari, Ariel the ninth sign of the zodiac. photographed lions and elephants. The Moon was in Sagittarius when salmonellosis Sherman was born. n saffron / TsalmETneSlPsDs / n salaam American name + Lcff / SsafrEn / infection with a bacterial disease Ar > L > F > E salamander typically marked by gastroenteritis a deep orange-colored substance n but often complicated by consisting of the aromatic pungent / SsalETmandE(r) / septicemia, meningitis, and other dried stigmas of the saffron crocus Gk > L > F > E conditions. and used to color and flavor foods. a metal disk or plate heated and Vaughn contracted salmonellosis Saffron is the most expensive spice held over a food (as pastry or while on the cruise. at Walker’s Market. pudding) to brown the top of it. A salamander is often used to salon caramelize the top of desserts like crème brulée.

Page 221 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently salsilla sanctity saponaceous n adj / salSsilE / sanctum / TsapESnCshEs / L n L a tropical American plant with / SsaN(k)tEm / soapy. edible roots sometimes used as a L Talc and soapstone have a substitute for potatoes. a sacred place. saponaceous feel. In the West Indies we had our first The innermost sanctum of the taste of salsilla. temple in Jerusalem was known as saporous the Holy of Holies. adj salutary / SsapErEs / adj sandal L / SsalyETterG / n having flavor; especially : L / SsandFl / agreeable in taste. promoting health : curative, Gk > L > E When Dad returned from work, restorative. a shoe consisting essentially of a Mom treated him to a saporous The long vacation had a salutary sole fastened to the foot by means beef stew. effect on Grace’s mental health. of straps or thongs passing over the instep and around the ankle. sapphire salve Lorraine stopped to refasten the n n strap of her sandal because her / SsaTfI(E)r / / Ssav / ankle had swollen. Skt > Heb > Gk > L > F > E E a precious stone of transparent rich a healing ointment. sangaree blue corundum of great value. Jason’s grandmother prepared a Sapphire has been highly prized as mustard oil salve and told him that sangfroid a gemstone since 800 B.C. if he used it, his troubles would be n over in three days. / saNSfrwB / sapphiric L > F adj samovar extraordinary self-possession or / sESfirik / imperturbability, especially under Skt > Heb > Gk > L > F > E samphire strain. having the nature of or resembling n Justin remained calm during the a sapphire. / SsamTfI(E)r / prosecutor’s attack and replied to Diane’s bracelet held a series of F name the questions with sangfroid. sapphiric stones. a fleshy European coastal plant that is sometimes pickled. sanguinary saprophagous Daphne ordered the salad of adj samphire and other greens. sanguine / sESprBfEgEs / adj Gk + Gk sampler / SsaNgwDn / feeding on decaying matter. L While hiking, Ted and Paul passed samurai marked by eager hopefulness. the carcass of a squirrel that was Ever sanguine, Kathy said that she covered with saprophagous insects. sanctified would one day win the lottery. saran sanctimonious sanitary adj adj sarcasm / TsaN(k)tESmPnGEs / / SsanETterG / L L sarcophagus displaying high-mindedness with for or relating to the preservation of intent to impress. health. Ronnie’s voice took on a Conditions at Christ Hospital are sanctimonious tone when he as sanitary as is humanly possible. volunteered to give his mother his meal. sanction

Page 222 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently sardine Saskatchewan satire n adj n / TsBrSdGn / / sESskachEwEn / / SsaTtI(E)r / Gk? > L > F > E Cree > Canad geog name L any of several small or immature of or from the province of a usually topical literary fishes preserved for food. Saskatchewan, Canada. composition holding up human or The only way to entice the Among the Saskatchewan flora is individual vices, folly, abuses, or frightened cat from under the porch the saskatoon, a sweet purple shortcomings to censure by means was to offer him a sardine. berry. of ridicule, derision, burlesque, irony, or other method sometimes sardonic saskatoon with an intent to bring about n improvement. sardonyx / TsaskEStVn / Gulliver’s Travels is a scathing Canadian geog name satire of political and religious sarong a juneberry of the northern and hypocrites. western United States and adjacent sarrazin Canada. satiric The purple fruit of the saskatoon is sarsaparilla eaten eagerly by birds. satirical n adj / Tsas(E)pESrilE / sassafras / sEStirDkEl / Sp n L > F a sweetened carbonated beverage / Ssas(E)Tfras / characterized by caustic or ironic similar to root beer with the Sp > L comment. predominant flavor from birch oil the dried bark of the root of an Ned’s cartoons have a sharp, and sassafras. aromatic tree used as a diaphoretic, satirical edge. Sylvester’s yen for sarsaparilla is a flavoring agent, an aromatic well known to cartoon aficionados. stimulant, or as a source of an saturate aromatic volatile oil used in v sartorial perfumes. / SsachETrCt / adj Alba’s family has a recipe for L / sBrStPrGEl / medicinal tea that contains infuse thoroughly or cause to be L sassafras. pervaded. of or relating to dress or to tailored The aroma of a turkey roasting in clothes. satchel the oven began to saturate the Sandy, who longed to be a sartorial entire house. rebel, sometimes went to class satellite wearing purple tights under her n saturnine uniform. / SsaZFlTIt / adj Etruscan? > L > F / SsaZE(r)TnIn / sashay a celestial body orbiting another of L v larger size. of a moody or surly character : / saSshC / Earth has only one natural morose, sullen. F > E satellite—the Moon. Shirley’s father-in-law is a [Note: Could be confused with saturnine person with a quick chassé. Also, word has homonym: satiate temper. sachet] strut in an ostentatious or conspicuous manner. satiety saucer Tommy and Suzanne tried to n sashay as the caller instructed, but / sEStIEZG / they both tripped and fell. L > F the quality or state of being fed to or beyond capacity. Nell wondered if her beagle puppy would ever reach satiety.

Page 223 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently sauciness savvy scalpel n n n / SsOsGnDs / / SsavG / / SskalpEl / L > F + Ecf L > Sp L the quality or state of being expertness in a particular field a small straight knife with a thin amusingly or unobjectionably based on experience and native keen blade used especially for forward or impertinent. ability. dissecting. Emma felt they were friends again, Officer Ramos’s street savvy was a In surgery the scalpel is now often and the conviction gave her at first great help in apprehending drug replaced by a laser beam. great satisfaction, and then a little dealers. sauciness. scampi saxophone sauerbraten scandal n sayonara / SsaU(E)rTbrBtFn / n scansion G / TsByESnBrE / n oven-roasted or pot-roasted beef Jpn / SskanchEn / marinated in a vinegar solution good-bye. L with peppercorns, garlic, onions, Charlene found it hard to bid the analysis of a rhythmic structure and bay leaves before cooking. Nagano sayonara at the end of the (as a verse) so as to show the Phil’s favorite German restaurant 1998 Winter Olympics. elements or units of which its features sauerbraten during rhythm is composed. Oktoberfest. scabbard There are three major types of n English scansion: the graphic, the sauger / SskabE(r)d / musical, and the acoustic. G > AF > E saunter a usually leather or metal sheath in scaphoid which the blade of a sword, dagger, adj saurian bayonet, or other cutting weapon is / SskaTfOid / enclosed when not in use. Gk > L sausage The knight began to pull his sword shaped like a boat. n from its scabbard, but a look from Terence found a scaphoid / SsOsij / the queen stopped him. depression in the rock. L > F > E highly seasoned chopped or ground scabrous scarce meat that is used either fresh or adj adj cured. / SskabrEs / / Sske(E)rs / Harry’s favorite pizza is topped L L > F > E with sausage and onions. rough to the touch : having small not plentiful or abundant. raised dots, scales, or points. Lettuce became scarce and savagism The leaf’s scabrous texture was expensive after the recent flooding. caused by insect attacks. savorous scarcity adj scaffold / SsCv(E)rEs / scaturient L > F > E scalene adj pleasurable to the taste : flavorful. adj / skEStUrGEnt / Mabel prepared a savorous / SskCTlGn / L Thanksgiving dinner for her family. Gk gushing forth : effusive, having the sides unequal—used of overflowing. savory a triangle. The explorers followed the river to adj The boat’s sail formed a scalene its scaturient source. / SsCv(E)rG / triangle. F scavenging fragrant. scallopini Guido bought a savory wooden scelidosaur bowl smelling of rich cedar and varnish.

Page 224 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently scenario schemer schottische n n n / sDSna(a)rGTP / / SskGmE(r) / / SshBZish / Gk > L Gk G an outline or synopsis of a play. one that forms plots or intrigues. a round dance in duple time After the actor read the scenario, Joe was a schemer who always had characterized by gliding and he decided that he was not right for big plans to get rich. hopping steps and similar to but the leading role. slower than the polka. scherzando After an hour of dancing the scentless adj schottische, Ed and Sarah wearily adj / skertSsBn(T)dP / headed for the soda machine. / SsentlDs / Gmc > It L > F > E + Ecf playful, jesting—used as a schuss emitting no odor. direction in music indicating style n Gerald prefers scentless soap. and tempo. / SshUs / The Flight of the Bumblebee was G scepter played with scherzando lightness. a straightaway skiing course. n In a tucked position Kira followed / SseptE(r) / scherzo the schuss all the way to the Gk > L > F > E bottom. a staff or baton borne by a schiavone sovereign as a ceremonial emblem schussboomer of authority. schipperke n When Ben played Henry VIII in the / SshUsTbVmEr / school play, his mother made him a schism G + imit scepter. one who skis usually straight schismatic downhill at high speed. schadenfreude adj When the schussboomer lost n / sizSmaZik / control, he somersaulted and rolled / SshBdFnTfrOidE / Gk > L to the foot of the slope. G of, relating to, or characteristic of enjoyment obtained from the division, separation, or discord. sciatica mishaps of others. The book describes numerous n Morgana claimed to be schismatic movements in church / sISaZDkE / sympathetic, but the schadenfreude history. Gk > L was all too obvious. pain along the course of a sciatic schizoid nerve or its branches and especially scheduling in the leg. schizophrenia As Alicia struggled out of bed, she schefflera complained of sciatica in her left n schnitzel leg. / SsheflErE / n G name > L / SshnitsEl / scientific any of several shrubby tropical G adj plants that are cultivated for their a veal cutlet variously seasoned and / TsIEnStifik / showy foliage. garnished. L When frost was predicted, Demont The Bavarian restaurant’s menu concerned with or treating of a covered the schefflera with a included sauerbraten, sausages, branch or department of blanket. and schnitzel. systematized knowledge that is or can be made a specific object of scheme schooner study. v Alain’s scientific training landed / SskGm / him a job at Dow Chemical. Gk accomplish by clever contriving. scientist Walter resolved to scheme out a way to get a new bike. scilicet

scintilla

Page 225 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently scintillate sconce scrimshaw v n n / SsintFlTCt / / SskBn(t)s / / SskrimTshO / L L > F > E unknown gleam or emit quick flashes as if an ornamental electric light fixture any of various carved or engraved throwing off sparks. for a wall that resembles a bracket useful or decorative articles Mom’s eyes scintillate whenever candlestick or group of sometimes colored by brushing ink she is joyously excited. candlesticks. into the engraved lines and made Tamara bought an elaborate especially by American whalemen scintillation sconce for her hallway. from whalebone or whale ivory. n The whaling museum has a large / TsintFlSCshEn / scopate collection of scrimshaw. L adj rapid changes in the brightness of a / SskPTpCt / scrivener celestial body caused by turbulence L + E n in Earth’s atmosphere. resembling a brush. / Sskriv(E)nE(r) / The stars’ scintillation is less Some cacti have scopate flowers. L > F pronounced at higher altitudes. a professional or public copyist or scoundrel writer. scintiscan n The critic dismissed the writer’s / SskaUndrEl / novel as the uninspired work of a sciolistic unknown scrivener. adj a bold selfish person who has very / TsIESlistik / low ethical standards. scroll L The treasurer of the company was n of or relating to superficial fired when he was found out to be / SskrPl / knowledge or to one whose an opportunistic scoundrel. Gmc > F > E knowledge is superficial. a long strip used as the body of a The students’ sciolistic scourge written document and often having conversation amused Professor n a rod or rods for convenience in Pickett. / SskErj / rolling and storing. L > F > E The writing on the magician’s sciosophy a social evil. scroll erased itself after the spell Much of the city’s crime is was read aloud. scissors attributed to the scourge of recurrent unemployment. scrumptious sclerosis adj n scraggly / SskrEm(p)shEs / / sklDSrPsDs / L Gk scrimmage delightful, excellent. pathological hardening of tissue n The bakery down the street makes a produced by overgrowth of fibrous / Sskrimij / scrumptious almond coffee cake. tissue and other changes or by Gmc > E increase in interstitial tissue. practice play between a team’s scrupulously Sclerosis is often a consequence of various squads. adv old age. Today’s exciting scrimmage is a / SskrVpyElEslG / good indication that both squads L scofflaw are ready for the upcoming season. conscientiously, painstakingly. n Katie washes her hands so / SskBfTlO / scrupulously that her friends E + E wonder if she has a psychological a contemptuous lawbreaker; disorder. especially : one who ignores parking tickets. The scofflaw tore up his ticket in front of the police officer and was subsequently fined $500.

Page 226 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently sculptor sebaceous Seder n adj n / SskElptE(r) / / sDSbCshEs / / SsCdE(r) / L L Heb one that carves, engraves, molds, relating to, composed of, or [has homonym: satyr] a Jewish welds, or constructs (materials) into secreting fatty matter. home or community service and a primarily three-dimensional work Oily skin is usually the result of ceremonial dinner held on the first of art. overactive sebaceous glands. evening of the Passover. Pablo Picasso was equally Jim had never been to a Seder influential as a painter, a sculptor, secco before he met Julia. and a draftsman. secede sediment sculpture v n / sDSsGd / / SsedEmEnt / scuppernong L L n withdraw from a federation. material deposited (as by water, / SskEpE(r)TnON / About ten more deputies have opted wind, or glaciers). geog name to secede from the governing The layers of sediment were evident any of various cultivated majority. in the shades of color on the rocky muscadine grape varieties which hillside. have yellowish-green fruit secession suggesting a plum in flavor. n sedition Molly picked and ate a / sDSseshEn / n scuppernong from her L / sDSdishEn / grandmother’s grape arbor. formal withdrawal from an L > F > E organization (as a religious an insurrection against constituted scurrilous communion or political party or authority. adj federation). Because Paul openly advocated the / SskErElEs / The history teacher explained that overthrow of the government, he L the South’s secession from the was charged with sedition. containing low obscenities or United States was not solely an coarse abuse. issue regarding slavery. sedulous The farmers hurled scurrilous accusations across the barbed-wire secessionist seedling fence. n secondariness / SsGdliN / scutellate E + Ecf adj secularism a nursery plant (usually a tree) that / sk(y)VStelDt / has not been transplanted. L secund Karen bought a maple seedling at rather flat with a distinct rim and a the tree farm. rounded to oval outline. sedens Beryl opened the packet and seersucker examined the scutellate seeds. sedentary adj seethe scuttlebutt / SsedFnTterG / L segue scythe characterized by or requiring sitting v or slight activity. / SsC(T)gwC / scytodepsic Isabelle’s sedentary job provided L > It little opportunity for exercise. make a transition from one activity, seabound topic, scene, or part to another as or as if part of a natural progression. seafaring Senator Ward used an anecdote to segue to a new topic in his speech. seasonably

Page 227 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently seguidilla semester seneschal n n n / TsCgGSdG(y)E / / sDSmestE(r) / / SsenDshEl / L > Sp L Gmc > F > E a Spanish dance with many either of the two periods of a bailiff, steward, or majordomo of regional variations or the music for instruction commonly 18 weeks in a great medieval lord. this dance performed with guitar length into which an academic year The seneschal pounded his staff on and castanets. is usually divided. the floor three times and In the second act of the opera, the Yolanda was delighted that her announced the king’s visitors. Spanish gypsy performs a grades for the first semester were seguidilla. all A’s. senile seiche semiautomatic sensibilia n / SsCsh / seminary sensibility F n an oscillation of the surface of a / SsemETnerG / sensible lake or landlocked sea. L A seiche can be almost as powerful an institution for the training of sensory as a tidal wave. candidates for the priesthood, adj ministry, or rabbinate. / Ssen(t)s(E)rG / seismism The pulpit committee’s first choice L + E n is a young person who has just of or relating to the senses. / SsIzTmizEm / completed seminary. In some insects the sensory organs Gk of taste, touch, smell, and hearing earthquake phenomena. semolina are located in the antennae. Ralph gave a report about n seismism in Chinese folklore. / TsemESlGnE / sententious L > It adj seity the purified middlings of durum or / senStenchEs / other hard wheat used for macaroni L seizure and other alimentary pastes. terse, aphoristic, or moralistic in n The best pasta is made from expression : pithy. / SsGzhE(r) / semolina. The sitcom’s drop in popularity E was attributed to its growing a sudden attack (as of a disease or senary tendency toward sententious sickness). adj sermonizing. A seizure of hay fever ruined the / SsGnErG / picnic for Tom. L sentient [has homonym: scenery] of, based seldom upon, or characterized by six : sentimental compounded of six things : selectivity consisting of six parts. sentinel Jethro experimented with music n selenian using a senary scale. / Ssent(F)nEl / adj L > It > F / sDSlGnGEn / senectitude one that watches or guards. Gk The sentinel peered into the of, relating to, or designating the senescent distance through tiny binoculars. Moon. adj Jim’s story tells the tale of an / sDSnesFnt / separate explorer going off to create a L selenian colony. growing old. The town's senescent infrastructure selenology struggled under the burden of a growth spurt. semaphore

Page 228 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently sepia seraphic serried n adj adj / SsGpGE / / sDSrafik / / SserGd / Gk > L Heb > L F a pigment of rich brown color of, relating to, or befitting an angel crowded or pressed together. containing melanin, prepared from of the highest order especially in The serried tenements of the big the ink of various cuttlefishes, and beauty or ecstatic adoration. city soon gave way to rolling hills. used in watercolor painting and in The choir’s hymn of praise sounded ink. sublimely seraphic. serviceable Black-and-white photographs can adj be stained with sepia to give them serendipitous / SsErvDsEbEl / an old-fashioned look. adj L > F / TserDnSdipEZEs / suited for a purpose. septentrional Ar geog name + Ecf Filene lamented that the poncho’s adj obtained or characterized by design, though serviceable, is not / sepStentrGEnFl / unexpected but fortunate discovery. very fashionable. L Mickey’s serendipitous discovery of northern. five quarters and two dimes on the servile The septentrional seaports of sidewalk made his day. adj Russia are frozen in the winter. / SsErvEl / serge L sepulchral [has homonym: serval] of, relating adj serictery to, or appropriate to slaves. / sDSpElkrEl / n Oscar was thankful to be be freed L / sDSriktErG / from his servile status. having a funereal quality. Gk > L Dusk and a vase of gardenias gave the silk-producing gland of a sesquicentennial the parlor a sepulchral air. caterpillar or other insect larva. n As it spins its cocoon, the silkworm / TseskwDsenStenGEl / sequaciousness caterpillar secretes a gummy L n substance from each serictery. a 150th anniversary. / sDSkwCshEsnes / The state issued special license L > E serigraphy plates to commemorate its the quality or state of being sesquicentennial. imitative or obsequious. sermonize Cal’s sequaciousness failed to win v sesquipedalian him a promotion. / SsErmETnIz / adj F > E / TseskwDpDSdClyEn / sequel address at length in a didactic and L n solemn manner. given to or characterized by the use / SsGkwEl / Everyone is hoping that Dad won’t of long words. L find something to sermonize about Norbert dozed off halfway through continuation; especially : a literary when he chaperones the school the principal’s sesquipedalian work continuing the course of a dance. speech. narrative begun in a preceding one. The film was so popular that the serpiginous session producer asked the screenwriter for a sequel. serrated severance adj sequester / SseTrCZDd / v L / sDSkwestE(r) / notched or toothed on the edge. L > F > E Under the microscope, dust mites hide from public view : seclude. appear to be hairy monsters with The judge wanted to sequester the serrated claws. jury to keep them from hearing news reports that might sway their serrefine opinions.

Page 229 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently shackle shekel shindig v n n / SshakEl / / SshekEl / / SshinTdig / E Hebrew E [has homonym: shackel] confine a Hebrew unit of weight equal to a jovial social affair that includes the limbs of so as to prevent free about 252 grains troy. dancing. motion. In the Talmudist system, a shekel is Max hosted the shindig at the hotel. The prisoner of war told the United 1/60 of a mina. Nations delegation that his guards shipwreck had threatened to shackle him 24 shenanigan n hours a day. / SshiTprek / shenanigans E + Scand > F > E shaddock n pl a large ruined or stranded seagoing n / shDSnanDgEnz / boat or its parts. / SshadEk / unknown The shipwreck was mottled with E name high-spirited, daring, or barnacles. a very large thick-rinded typically mischievous acts : pranks. pear-shaped citrus fruit. On the first day of school Mrs. shivering The shaddock resembles the Gibson warned the class that she v grapefruit but is larger, coarser, would not put up with any / Sshiv(E)riN / and drier. shenanigans in her classroom. E trembling due to cold, fear, or shadiness sheriff physical pressure. n n Norma was shivering because she / SshCdGnDs / / SsherDf / did not dress in warm clothing. E + Ecff E the quality or state of comparative a county officer who is usually shrapnel darkness. elected by the people of the county n On a hot day, the cool shadiness of and has the duty of preserving the / SshrapnEl / a tree is very welcome. peace. E name The office of sheriff is a holdover bomb, mine, or shell fragments. shaganappi from medieval English law. The surgeon found and removed all of the shrapnel in the soldier’s leg, shale shibboleth ensuring a swift recovery. n n / SshCl / / SshibElDth / shrewdness E Heb n a fissile rock that is formed by the a custom or usage regarded as a / SshrVdnDs / consolidation of clay, mud, or silt. criterion for distinguishing E The petroleum refinery also members of one group (as a social the quality or state of being markets by-products of shale. class) from those of another. discerning or astute. Table manners are sometimes used Shrewdness is Janet’s strong suit. shallot as a shibboleth of class distinction. n shriek / shESlBt / shillibeer n L > F n / SshrGk / a perennial herb that resembles an / SshilETbi(E)r / E onion and is used in cooking. E name a shrill, usually wild or involuntary Ted didn’t have time to go to the a horse-drawn hearse with seats for cry. store again, so he substituted a mourners. Nancy let out a shriek when her white onion for a shallot in the The museum has acquired an little brother dropped an ice cube recipe. ornate Victorian shillibeer. down the back of her dress. shanghaied shillyshallyer shubunkin shears shebang

Page 230 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently shuddering siege silicon v n n / SshEd(E)riN / / SsGj / / SsilDkEn / E L > F > E L shaking with fear, aversion, horror, the operations of an army around a [Note: Could be confused with or cold. fortified place for the purpose of silicone.] a nonmetallic element Joan woke shuddering from a compelling its surrender by assault that occurs abundantly in combined nightmare. or blockade. form and is used chiefly in the form The defenders were confident they of alloys. sibilant could outlast the siege, since the The scientist was striving to devise adj castle had an underground source a new method for purifying silicon / SsibElEnt / of fresh water. for use in fabricating microchips. L imit having, containing, or producing siffilate sillographer the sound of or a sound resembling v n that of the s or the sh in sash. / SsifETlCt / / sDSlBgrEfE(r) / “She sells sea shells. . . .” is a L > F Gk sibilant tongue twister. whisper. a writer of satires. The diners began to siffilate when The marble bust of the ancient siccative the celebrity entered the restaurant. sillographer crashed to the library adj floor. / SsikEZiv / signature L similarity causing to dry : promoting the silentiary action of drying. n simile Zinc oxide is often used as a / sISlenchGTerG / n siccative agent for skin rashes. L / SsimE(T)lG / one appointed to keep silence and L sickle order (as in a court of law or a a figure of speech comparing two public assembly). essentially unlike things and often sicklocyte One stern glance from the introduced by like or as. n silentiary was all it took to stop Kermit has a pet chicken and / Ssik(E)lETsIt / Karsten’s insipid murmuring. knows firsthand what the simile “as E + Gk scarce as hens’ teeth” means. an abnormal red blood cell of silhouette crescent shape. n simnel The patient with sickle-cell anemia / TsilESwet / n wanted to see a sicklocyte under F name / SsimnEl / the microscope. a representation of the outlines of Semitic? > L > F > E an object filled in with black or a rich fruit cake sometimes covered sidereal some other uniform color. with almond paste. adj Mrs. Baldwin has a framed Auntie Grace always serves simnel / sISdirGEl / silhouette of each of her children during the December holidays. L on the wall of her foyer. [has near homonym: sideral] of or simpatico relating to stars or constellations. silhouettist adj Time-lapse photography was used / simSpBZDTkP / by the observatory to detect siliciferous L > It sidereal motion. adj possessing attractive qualities : / TsilESsif(E)rEs / appealing, likable. L The hero of the novel is a producing, containing, or united thoroughly simpatico character. with silica. When geologists analyzed the siliciferous rock, they found quartz and chlorite veins.

Page 231 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently simulacrum sinuosity skewer n n n / TsimyESlCkrEm / / TsinyESwBsEZG / / SskyVE(r) / L L unknown a representation of something : the quality or state of bending in [has near homonym: skua] a pin of image, effigy. and out. wood or metal for fastening meat to A simulacrum of Elvis stood at the The sinuosity of the mountain road keep in form while roasting or to entrance to the wax museum. taxed Ken’s driving skills. hold small pieces of meat and vegetables for broiling. simultaneity sinusitis Maggie put pieces of steak and n vegetables on the skewer. simultaneous / TsInESsIZDs / L skillet sinciput inflammation of any of the several n cavities in the skull. / SskilDt / sinecure The allergist explained that Alice’s E n headaches and sneezing are due to frying pan. / SsinDTkyU(E)r / sinusitis. A quality deep skillet has many L uses in the kitchen. an office or position that requires sirloin little or no work and that usually n skimeister provides an income. / SsErTlOin / n The mayor made the grave mistake L > F > E / SskGTmIstE(r) / of handing out a sinecure to a a cut of meat and especially of beef G + L > G friend. taken from the hindquarters. [Note: Caution should be taken not The butcher cut the sirloin into to confuse second part of this sinew steaks for his customers. compound word with master.] a n professional skier or skiing / Ssi(T)nyV / sitology instructor. E n Diantha pretended to be a poor tendon; especially : one dressed for / sIStBlEjG / skier just to get close to the use as a cord or thread. Gk handsome skimeister. Ephraim wore a jade pendant in [Word has homonym: cytology. In the shape of a bear on a sinew addition, an alternate pronunciation skimpiness around his neck. has near homonym: cetology.] the n science of nutrition and dietetics. / SskimpGnDs / singeing Deirdre plans to major in sitology Scand? > E? + Ecff and write cookbooks for the quality or state of being singularize vegetarians. deficient in supply or execution. v The skimpiness of Eunice’s budget / SsiNgyElETrIz / skedaddle did not allow for many luxuries. L + Ecf v distinguish. / skDSdadFl / skittish By practicing every day, Ben unknown believed he could singularize run away : leave hastily. skoal himself in the school orchestra. A sudden shower caused Karen to skedaddle from the bazaar. skookum sinistral adj adj skeleton / SskVkEm / / SsinDstrEl / n Chinook L / SskelEtFn / marked by excellent quality : first- of or relating to the left. Gk rate. The sorcerer’s mask was ripped the bones of a human being or Liz felt sure that the pail of away, revealing terrible scars on other vertebrate. blueberries would make a skookum the sinistral side of his face. Dr. Symonds has a real human pie. skeleton in his office.

skewbald

Page 232 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently slalom smoggy sojourner n adj n / SslBlEm / / SsmBgG / / SsPTjErnE(r) / Norw (E + Scand?) > E F > E skiing in a zigzag or wavy course characterized by or abounding in a one that stays as a temporary between upright obstacles. fog made heavier and darker by resident. Tully did the slalom down the smoke and chemical fumes. Even though he had lived there for moutainside. The smoggy atmosphere of Los five years, Russell knew he was Angeles aggravated Frank’s regarded as a sojourner by the slanderous allergies. neighbors. slantindicular smorgasbord solatium adj n n / TslantFnSdikyElE(r) / / SsmOrgEsTbOrd / / sPSlCshGEm / E + L > F > E Sw L somewhat oblique. a luncheon or supper buffet something that alleviates or The main staircase of the new offering a variety of foods and compensates for suffering or loss; library rises at a slantindicular dishes. especially : an additional allowance angle to the facade. Nita’s smorgasbord included (as for injured feelings). turkey and smoked salmon. The government offered a solatium slapstick to the families of those killed in the n snagrel terrorist bombing. / SslapTstik / n G imit + E / SsnagrDl / solder comedy that depends for its effect unknown v on fast, boisterous, and zany an herb of the genus Aristolochia of / SsBdE(r) / physical activity and horseplay the eastern United States. L > F > E often accompanied by broad rowdy Snagrel is also called Virginia [has homonym: sodder] unite or verbal humor. snakeroot. make whole by means of a melted The Three Stooges were famous for metallic alloy. their slapstick. soavemente Jennifer’s science class learned adv how to solder wires so they could sleazily / sPTBvCSmentC / experiment with electrical circuits. L > It sledgehammer with sweetness or smoothness : in a soldier gentle manner—used as a direction sleuth in music. solecism v The serenade was played / SslVth / soavemente by the strings. solfatara ON > E n act as a detective or investigator : sociable / TsBlfEStBrE / search for information or facts. adj L > It There are several game programs / SsPshEbEl / a volcanic area or vent that yields that teach children how to sleuth L sulfur gases and hot vapors and out facts and figures on the enjoying companionship. represents a late stage of volcanic Internet. The dolphin is one of the most activity. sociable creatures known to man. Harry noticed a rotten-egg odor slobberhannes coming from a solfatara on the sodality north side of the previously inactive sluice volcano. n / SslVs / solferino L > F > E a body of water pent up behind a floodgate. Ellen crossed the sluice in a canoe. smectic

Page 233 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently solicitous solleret somnambulant adj n adj / sESlisEZEs / / TsBlESret / / sBmSnambyElEnt / L L > F L + L manifesting or expressing concern. a flexible steel shoe forming part of walking or addicted to walking Dr. Turner is especially solicitous a medieval suit of armor. while asleep. toward his older patients. The curator explained that the Sheila could remember nothing of cumbersome solleret had to be her somnambulant activities when soliloquy removed to allow the knight to fight she was told of them the next n on foot. morning. / sESlilEkwG / L solmization somniloquist a discourse made by one in solitude to oneself. solon somnolence At the talent contest Angelo stepped n into the spotlight and recited / SsPlEn / sonorous Hamlet’s famous soliloquy “To be Gk name adj or not to be, . . .” a wise and skillful lawgiver or / SsBnErEs / statesman. L solipsism Judge Kantz is revered throughout characterized by full or loud sound n the county as a solon. often with clear or rich tone, / SsPlDpTsizEm / marked volume, or easy audibility. L solstice Alex’s sonorous voice made him extreme indulgence of and concern n the clear choice to perform the with the self at the expense of / SsBlztDs / reading. social relationships especially as L > F > E expressed in a failure of artistic one of two points on the ecliptic at soothsaying communication. which its distance from the celestial Critics accused the popular actor equator is greatest and which is sophistry of solipsism. reached by the Sun each year about n June 22nd and December 23rd. / SsBfDstrG / solitaire The North Pole is tilted directly Gk > F n toward the Sun at the summer reasoning that is superficially / SsBlETta(E)r / solstice. plausible but actually fallacious. L Larry’s masterful but irresponsible a card game designed for one solstitial sophistry easily convinced naïve person to play alone. adj listeners. Shelley often relaxes by playing / sBlzStishEl / solitaire after everyone else has L Sophoclean gone to bed. of or relating to the two points on adj the ecliptic at which its distance / TsBfESklGEn / soliterraneous from the celestial equator is Gk name adj greatest and which is reached by of, relating to, or characteristic of / TsPlEtESrCnGEs / the Sun each year about June 22nd the Athenian tragic poet Sophocles L and December 23rd. or his dramas. of or relating to Earth and the Sun. Ancient myths about the eternal Finding a new Sophoclean Scientists attribute the recent battle between light and dark are fragment in the museum’s papyri drought to soliterraneous causes. tied to equinoctial and solstitial was Gunther’s claim to fame. moments in the year. solivagant sophomore adj solvolysis n / sPSlivEgEnt / / SsBf(E)TmP(E)r / L Gk marked by solitary wandering. a student in his second year or with During his first semester in college, second-year standing at a college. Gerry took frequent solivagant As a sophomore, Jason was walks around the campus. expected to find a one-semester internship in his major subject.

Page 234 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently soporific sortileger spaghetti adj n n / TsBpESrifik / / SsO(r)ZFlijE(r) / / spESgeZG / L > F L It causing or tending to cause sleep. one that tells fortunes; especially : a a pasta made in solid strings of The students valiantly attempted to person who for payment predicts small diameter but larger than fight off the soporific effects of the what are claimed to be future vermicelli. lecture. events or influences in the life of The specialty of the restaurant was another. spaghetti with meat sauce. sorbet The sortileger predicted a radical n change in Frank’s lifestyle. spandex / SsOrbDt / Turkish > It > F soubise spangle [Note: Could be confused with n n sherbet.] a frozen dessert made / sVSbGz / / SspaNgEl / with a mixture of fruits. F geog name Scand > E Wylie ate sorbet between courses to a white or brown sauce containing a small object that brightly reflects cleanse his palate. onions or onion puree. light. A sauceboat of soubise The packrat ran out into the road sorcerer accompanied the roast. to pick up the glittering spangle. n / SsO(r)s(E)rE(r) / soubrette spaniel L > F magician. sourdough spatiotemporal Traveling alone in the dark, the adj sorcerer saw no harm in conjuring sousaphone / TspCshG(T)PStemp(E)rEl / up a lamp for his convenience. n L / SsVzETfPn / having the quality of something sorcery Amer name + Gk > E that is at once extended and a large circular tuba having a enduring. sorghum flaring adjustable bell. The philosopher pointed out that n The band director was looking for two things cannot coexist in one / SsOrgEm / someone who could play the spatiotemporal point. L? > It sousaphone. syrup produced by evaporating the spatterdock juice from stems of certain tropical soutane grasses. spatula Rachel likes sorghum on her souterrain n oatmeal. / SspachElE / souvenir L sorrel n a flat thin flexible dull-edged n / TsVvESni(E)r / usually metal implement used / SsOrEl / L > F especially for spreading or mixing Gmc > F > E something that serves as a soft substances, scooping, or [has homonyms: saurel, soral, reminder : memento, remembrance. lifting. sorel] a light bright chestnut horse Moira kept a seashell as a souvenir With batter on his face and a often with white mane and tail. of her trip to the ocean. spatula in his fist, Casey smiled for Ken promised to take good care of his mom and her camera. the sorrel his dad had bought for spacious him. species spacistor n pl sortie n / SspG(T)shGz / / SspCTsistE(r) / L L a category of biological a high-frequency semiconductor classification ranking immediately amplifying device. below a genus or subgenus. The spacistor has replaced the The housefly belongs to the genus transistor because of its greater Musca and the species domestica. ability to amplify electrical energy.

Page 235 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently specimen sphagnum spinescent n n adj / SspesEmDn / / SsfagnEm / / spISnesFnt / L Gk > L L a particular single item, part, any plant of a large genus of tapering to a sharp rigid point. aspect, or incident that is typical atypical mosses that grow only in The fish Homer caught had two and indicative of the nature, very wet acid areas where their spinescent fins. character, or quality of others in the accumulated remains become same class or group. compacted with other plant debris spinet At the museum Ken and Allison saw to form peat. n an excellent specimen of a moon A large patch of sphagnum grew in / SspinDt / rock. the bog by the police station. L > It a compactly built upright piano of specious spherical reduced height and usually reduced adj adj keyboard suitable for limited space. / SspGshEs / / SsfirDkEl / Percival didn’t have room for a L Gk > L + Ecf full-size piano in his studio superficially fair, just, or correct, like a sphere : globular. apartment, so he bought a spinet. but not so in reality. Linda suspected that the spherical Only after the candidate was rock she found was a geode. spinnaker elected was the actual truth of her n specious claims exposed. spheterize / SspinDkE(r) / v unknown spectrum / SsfeZETrIz / a large triangular sail set on a long n Gk light pole and used when running / SspektrEm / take for one’s own : appropriate. before the wind. L The invading army proceeded to The spinnaker on Diane’s boat is a series of images formed when a spheterize the villagers’ private cardinal red. beam of light is subjected to property. dispersion. spiracle The specialty store carried a sphinx n spectrum of ties to suit any man’s n / SspirEkEl / taste. / SsfiN(k)s / L Gk > L one of the breathing pores found on speleologist a monster in Greek mythology the thorax and abdomen of an n having typically a lion’s body, insect. / TspGlGSBlEjDst / wings, and the head and bust of a The muscular valve of a spiracle Gk > L > ISV woman. opens only to allow the uptake of a specialist in the scientific study or According to Greek legend, the oxygen and the escape of carbon systematic exploration of caves. sphinx of Thebes would pose a dioxide. Dale’s work as a speleologist takes riddle to a passerby and then kill him to spectacular natural features that person if he or she could not spiritual around the world. answer it. splendent speleothem spiedino n n splenectomize / SspGlGETthem / / TspGESdG(T)nP / Gk > L > ISV + Gk Gmc > F > It splenetic a cave deposit or formation. a dish of meat rolled around a adj Receding waters have left a filling or minced and formed into / splDSneZik / speleothem of carbonate on the balls, then usually batter-dipped Gk > L cavern floor. and cooked on a skewer. marked by morose bad temper, The chef grilled a spiedino of beef sullen malevolence, or spiteful, on a charcoal grill. peevish anger. The splenetic critic gave the musical a scathing review.

spoliation

Page 236 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently spongicolous squalid staccato adj adj sponson / SskwBlDd / / stESkBZ(T)P / L F > It spontaneity marked by filthiness and marked by short clear-cut playing n degradation usually from neglect. or singing of tones or chords. / TspBntESnGEZG / The squalid tenement building was Marcia’s piano teacher told her to L condemned and scheduled for practice the etude’s staccato the quality or state of being demolition. passage several minutes each day. unconstrained or impulsive. Brian has always liked to stick to a squaliform stagnant schedule, but lately he has shown adj adj more spontaneity than usual. / SskwClETfOrm / / SstagnEnt / L > E L spontaneous resembling a shark or dogfish in having undergone physical changes adj form. while standing; especially : / spBnStCnGEs / While scuba diving, Mike impaired in flavor, odor, or texture L encountered a group of curious by such changes. proceeding from natural feeling or squaliform fish. Josh stood still in disbelief after native tendency without external Kevin pushed him into the stagnant constraint. squeamish water of the ditch. His employee’s spontaneous adj obedience made Tim’s job / SskwGmish / stalactite pleasant. AF > E n inclined to become nauseated : / stESlakTtIt / sporadically queasy. Gk Pat is squeamish when it comes to a deposit of calcium carbonate sporran rides at the fair. resembling an icicle hanging from n the roof or sides of a cavern. / SspBrEn / squelch It takes hundreds of years for a ScotGael v stalactite to form. a large pouch of skin with the hair / Sskwelch / or fur on that is worn in front of the imit stalagmite kilt by Highlanders in full dress and move with water or mud in one’s n used as a purse. shoes and produce a sucking or / stESlagTmIt / Angus picked up a quarter and put splashing sound. Gk it in his sporran. After playing in mud puddles all the a deposit of crystalline calcium way home, Frances tried to squelch carbonate more or less like an springerle quietly to her room without getting inverted stalactite formed on the n caught by her mother. floor of a cave. / Ss(h)priNErlE / A gigantic stalagmite blocked the G squirrel spelunker’s path. a thick hard cookie usually flavored n with anise and impressed with a / SskwEr(E)l / stalwart relief design and traditionally eaten Gk > L > F > E adj at Christmas in German-speaking any of various widely distributed / SstOlwE(r)t / countries. small to medium-sized rodents that E Klaus broke his tooth on a stale have a bushy tail and long strong brave, valiant, resolute. springerle. hind limbs. The new musical comedy is based On the trunk of the tree, a brown on the story of Robin Hood and his spur squirrel was clinging and watching stalwart companions. the boy below. spurious stabilimeter squadron stable

Page 237 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently stamina stationery steinkern n n n / SstamEnE / / SstCshETnerG / / Ss(h)tInTkern / L L > F > E G strength or courage of conviction : [has homonym: stationary] a fossil consisting of a stony mass staying power. materials (as paper, pens, pencils, that entered a hollow natural object The elderly senator doubted that he ink, blankbooks, ledgers, and (as a bivalve shell) in the form of had the stamina to last through cards) for writing or typing. mud or sediment, was consolidated, another election campaign. Claudia complained that just and remained as a cast after before the beginning of every dissolution of the mold. stamnos school year the office stationery For show-and-tell, Rose brought in began to disappear. a steinkern she had found at the stanchion beach. n statistician / SstanchEn / n stellar L > F / TstaZDSstishEn / adj an upright bar, post, prop, brace, or L > G / SstelE(r) / support. one versed in or engaged in L When Oliver lost control of his car, compiling masses of numerical of, relating to, or derived from the it swerved and hit a traffic-light data. stars. stanchion. Jamie’s career as a statistician Rapid stellar rotation can modify began with following baseball the structure of a star’s stanniferous scores. atmosphere. adj / staSnif(E)rEs / statistics stentorophonic Celt > L n pl containing tin. / stEStistiks / steppe In Spain, Italy, and the Middle East L n pottery is sometimes covered with a a science dealing with the / Sstep / white stanniferous glaze as a base collection, analysis, interpretation, Russ for other decoration. and presentation of masses of [has homonym: step] one of the numerical data. vast tracts in southeastern Europe stapes Our state has lost some of its voting or Asia that are usually level and clout because of statistics reported without forests. statically by the U.S. Census Bureau. The tourists explored the steppe in adv search of exotic wildlife. / SstaZDk(E)lG / statuesque Gk > L adj stereotype in stable or unchanging terms. / TstachESwesk / Alan's problem was that he always L > F > E + F > Ecf sternutation viewed problems statically. having a massive dignity or n impressiveness : majestic. / TstErnyEStCshEn / stationary A statuesque sculpture stood in the L adj town square. the act, fact, or noise of sneezing. / SstCshETnerG / Pat’s sternutation was so frequent L steadily and loud that his office mate asked [has homonym: stationery] fixed in to be transferred to another a place, position, course, or mode. stearic department. The clerk calmly remained in a stationary position. steatogenous stertorous adj steeple / SstErZErEs / L stegosaur characterized by a harsh snoring or gasping sound. While asleep in his easy chair, Uncle Max would give a start every few minutes, briefly awakened by his own stertorous breathing.

Page 238 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently stethoscope strabismus streuselkuchen n n n / SstethETskPp / / strESbizmEs / / SstrVsElTkVkEn / Gk > F Gk > L G an instrument used for the detection inability of one eye to attain coffee cake that is baked with a and study of sounds within the binocular vision with the other topping of a crumbly mixture of body. because of imbalance of the butter, sugar, and flour and Heard through a stethoscope, the extrinsic eye muscles. sometimes nuts and spices. rumbling of the stomach can sound Corrective surgery was performed Mrs. Messer, our neighbor, always like a storm at sea. to remedy Herman’s strabismus. bakes her family a streuselkuchen for the holidays. stevedore stratagem n n strident / SstGvETdP(E)r / / SstraZDjDm / adj L > Sp Gk / SstrIdFnt / one who works at or is responsible a cleverly contrived trick or scheme L for the loading or unloading of a for gaining an end. marked by insistent, discordant, ship in port. Barb was disappointed that her harsh, shrill, or grating noise or The stevedore returned to the ship mother saw through her stratagem sound. after dining at his favorite dockside for staying out past curfew. Mary-Ellen’s fingernails produced restaurant. a strident sound as she drew them strategist across the blackboard. stifle v strength stringent / SstIfEl / adj F > E strephosymbolia / SstrinjEnt / kill by smothering : asphyxiate. n L Smoke can stifle a person in a short / Tstre(T)fPTsimSbPlGE / marked by rigor, strictness, or period of time. Gk severity. reversal or transposition of phrases, Stringent regulations have helped stimulus words, or letters or of any symbols curb environmental pollution. especially in reading. stipend Because of his strephosymbolia, stroganoff n Ryan was diagnosed as having a adj / SstITpend / learning disorder. / SstrOgETnOf / L Russ name a fixed sum of money typically strepitous sliced thin and cooked in a sauce of modest in amount that is paid adj meat stock, sour cream, onion, and periodically in compensation for / SstrepEZEs / condiments. services. L Erica prepared beef stroganoff for The university gave Professor characterized or accompanied by the mayor’s visit. Barrett a stipend for his lecture much noise. series. The playoff game was a strepitous strongylid event. stirrup strophulus streptomycin n stochastic n / SstrBfyElEs / adj / TstreptPSmIsFn / Gk / stESkastik / Gk a rash in infants popularly Gk an antibiotic organic base active associated with teething distress. lacking or seeming to lack a regular against many bacteria and used The pediatrician prescribed an plan, purpose, or pattern. especially in the treatment of ointment for our baby’s strophulus. Vince programmed the computer to infections (as tuberculosis) by create a stochastic series of gram-negative bacteria. numbers. Streptomycin was the first drug to prove effective against stoically tuberculosis. stolkjaerre streusel

Page 239 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently strudel styptic subrident n adj adj / Ss(h)trVdFl / / Sstiptik / / TsESbrIdFnt / G Gk L a sheet of paper-thin dough rolled tending to arrest bleeding. wearing or offered with a smile. up with any of various fillings and Kenneth had to apply a styptic Eilene’s subrident answer belied baked. agent to his chin where he cut the furious feelings she had toward The flight attendant served the himself while shaving. the questioner. coach passengers a light breakfast of coffee, juice, and strudel. suable subscriber strychnine suasible subservient n adj adj / SstrikTnIn / / SswCsEbEl / / (T)sEbSsErvHEnt / Gk L L a very poisonous bitter crystalline capable of being induced into some subordinate. alkaloid obtained from various mental position : easily brought to In ancient Rome, wives were plants. belief, certainty, or conviction. legally subservient. Strychnine is a popular poison in When it comes to trying new foods, murder mystery novels. Ming is the least suasible member subsistence of her family. n stubborn / sEbSsistEn(t)s / suavity L studious a mode of obtaining the necessities adj subaqueous of life : livelihood. / Sst(y)VdGEs / adj Mr. Ellis preaches to his students L / TsEbSCkwGEs / that a good education goes far to of, relating to, or concerned with L ensure a respectable subsistence. the application of the mental being or found under water or faculties to the acquisition of beneath the surface of water. substitute knowledge. Bartley rented a glass-bottomed n Pam is the most studious pupil in boat to get a better look at the / SsEbztETtVt / Mr. Ramsey’s class. subaqueous fauna. L a person who takes the place of or stupefy subbasement acts for another. v When Donald fouled out of the / Sst(y)VpETfI / subboreal basketball game, the coach decided L adj to send in a substitute who had blunt or deaden the faculties of / sEbSbPrGEl / been warming the bench for weeks. perception and understanding of. L Bright headlights will often stupefy very cold : approaching the frigid. subterfuge a deer and cause it to stand Hope grew up in Florida and finds n motionless in the path of an it very difficult to live in what she / SsEbtE(r)TfyVj / oncoming vehicle. calls the “subboreal climate” of L Minnesota. deception by trickery or stratagem sturgeon to conceal, escape, avoid, or evade. subfuscous George’s experience in subterfuge stygian is mostly in cryptography. adj subjugate / Sstij(G)En / v subterranean Gk name / SsEbjETgCt / characteristic of death. L subtleness A black robe, a papier-mâché bring under the yoke of power or n sickle, and some grayish makeup dominion. / SsEZFlnDs / completed Sean’s stygian The love of acquisition and L > F > E + Ecf Halloween costume. conquest are powers of destruction the quality or state of being delicate when used to subjugate one person or elusive. stylebook to another. The subtleness of the almond custard eluded Mr. Denson.

Page 240 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently succedent sudoriferous suggestible adj successor / TsVdESrif(E)rEs / suitable L succinct producing or conveying sweat. sukiyaki adj Cycling and running are n / sEkSsiN(k)t / sudoriferous forms of exercise. / TsVkGS(y)BkG / L Jpn marked by brief and compact suede meat, soybean curd, onions, expression or by lack of bamboo shoots, and other unnecessary words and details. suffice vegetables cooked in soy sauce, Sandy’s succinct answers do not v sake, and sugar. satisfy those who question him. / sESfIs / Joyce watched with fascination as L the Japanese cook prepared succorance be enough : meet or satisfy a need. sukiyaki right at the table. n One teaspoonful of salt will suffice / SsEkE(r)rEn(t)s / for the stew. summarily L > F > E dependence. sufflaminate summary Harold took measures to reduce his v succorance on nasal decongestants. / sESflamETnCt / sumpter L n succotash obstruct, impede. / SsEm(p)tEr / n Because Tim said not having a L > F > E / SsEkETtash / computer would sufflaminate his a saddlebag. Algonquian progress, his parents relented and Grandpa’s sumpter is embossed a mixture of lima beans or shell bought him one. with his initials. beans and kernels of corn cooked together. suffocate sumptuous Even though Thelma likes both v adj corn and lima beans, she isn’t fond / SsEfETkCt / / SsEm(p)chEwEs / of succotash. L L die from being unable to breathe. involving large outlay or expense : succulence It was so hot and stuffy in the costly, lavish. classroom that Mark thought he Our grandparents treated the succulent would suffocate. whole family to a sumptuous adj brunch on Saturday. / SsEkyElEnt / suffrage L n sundae full of juice : juicy. / SsEfrij / Perry wiped his mouth with his L > F supercilious sleeve after he bit into the succulent the right or power to participate in adj peach. electing public officials and / TsVpE(r)SsilGEs / adopting or rejecting legislation in L succumbence a representative form of arrogantly superior : haughty, government. disdainful. sudadero The 19th Amendment to the The supercilious senior ignored the n Constitution gives women suffrage. first-year student. / TsVdESde(T)rP / L > Sp suffrutescent superficies a broad piece (as of leather) adj attached to a stirrup strap to protect / TsETfrVStesFnt / superfluous a rider’s leg from sweat. L adj Before mounting his horse, the having a base that is somewhat / sVSpErflEwEs / cowboy checked to see that each woody and does not die down each L sudadero was properly attached. year—used of a plant or stem. exceeding what is sufficient, Eunice prunes her suffrutescent necessary, normal, or desirable. suddenness shrubs in the fall. Alex’s teacher told him to eliminate superfluous words from his essay.

Page 241 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently superintendent surfeit surtout n n n / TsVp(E)rDnStendEnt / / SsErfDt / / TsErStV / L L > F > E L > F + L > F one who has the oversight and an overabundant supply, yield, or a man’s fitted coat or overcoat; charge of a place, institution, amount of something : excess. especially : frock coat. department, organization, or The reviewer commented that the Gerald rented a surtout to complete operation with the power of novel was burdened with a surfeit his Abraham Lincoln costume for direction. of details. the party. Frustrated residents petitioned the superintendent to improve the surgeon surveillance building’s electrical service. n surly / sE(r)SvClEn(t)s / supernumerary adj L > F n / SsErlG / close watch kept over one or more / TsVpE(r)Sn(y)VmETrerG / E persons (as to detect movements or L ill-natured, abrupt, and rude : activities). an actor employed to play a walk- churlishly cross. The suspects in the bombing on (as in a mob scene or spectacle). Marie complained to the manager investigation were kept under The casting director wanted a about the surly, uncooperative police surveillance. supernumerary to play one of the clerk. bank’s customers. susceptible surplus adj supersonic / sESseptEbEl / adj surrealism L / TsVpE(r)SsBnik / n easily influenced or affected L / sESrGETlizEm / through some trait. moving or capable of moving at F People who smoke are very speeds from one to five times the the principles, ideals, or practice of susceptible to chronic bronchitis speed of sound in air. producing fantastic or incongruous and emphysema. Myrna says that when she grows imagery in art or literature by up, she wants to fly supersonic means of unnatural juxtapositions suspicion aircraft. and combinations. n David Lynch is a modern master of / sESspishEn / superstitious cinematic surrealism. L adj mistrust, doubt. / TsVpE(r)SstishEs / surreptitious President Kennedy called for L > F > E adj cooperation with our adversaries to having or based on a belief, / TsErDpStishEs / “push back the jungle of conception, act, or practice L suspicion” and allow the resulting from ignorance, done, made, or acquired in secret or preservation of peace. unreasoning fear of the unknown, by stealth. or a false conception of causation. Denise was embarrassed when her suspirious The bridge became more than ever surreptitious note to Steve was an object of superstitious awe. intercepted by the teacher. sustain supine surrey sustenance adj n / sESpIn / surrogate / SsEstEnEn(t)s / L n L > F lying on the back or with the face / SsErETgCt / something that gives support, upward. L endurance, or strength. Greg’s dog stayed supine while something that replaces or Tyrone drew sustenance from the getting her belly rubbed. substitutes for another. letters his girlfriend wrote him In formulating new laws, the while he was overseas. suppedaneum legislature acts as a surrogate for the entire population. susurrant surcease

Page 242 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently susurration swivel syllogism n v n / TsVsESrCshEn / / SswivEl / / SsilETjizEm / L E Gk a whispering sound : murmur. turn or pivot freely. a brief form of argument that A mild susurration could be heard Frank chose an office chair that consists of two statements and a in the study hall despite the could swivel and tilt. conclusion that must be true if teacher’s “no talking” mandate. these two statements are true. sybaritic The following argument is a suture adj syllogism: All lawbreakers deserve v / TsibESriZik / punishment. This person is a / SsVchE(r) / Gk geog name lawbreaker. Therefore, this person L&F marked by or given to luxury or deserves punishment. unite the parts of by using a strand voluptuous living. or fiber. The duke’s sybaritic bathroom had syllogize The doctor estimated that it would marble sinks with gold fixtures, v take about 45 minutes to suture the floor-to-ceiling mirrors, and a / SsilETjIz / gash in Tim’s leg. whirlpool bath. GK > L > E deduce something by analysis of a suzerainty sybaritically formal argument that consists of a adv major premise, a minor premise, Svengali / TsibESriZDk(E)lG / and a conclusion. n Gk > L > E To teach logical thinking, Mr. / sfenSgBlG / in a luxurious or voluptuous Canby had the class syllogize the Brit literary name manner. philosopher’s argument. one who attempts usually with evil Dana reclined sybaritically on the intentions to persuade or force velvet sofa. sylph another to do his bidding. n Many fans thought that the rock sycamine / Ssilf / star’s wife was a Svengali who unknown > L engineered the group’s breakup. sychnocarpous a slender woman or girl of light and adj graceful carriage. swallow / TsiknESkBrpEs / One sylph after another joined the Gk + Gk > L > E growing circle of ballerinas on the sweltering able to produce fruit repeatedly. stage. adj The apple and pear are / SsweltEriN / sychnocarpous trees. symballophone E oppressively hot : causing or sycophant symbiosis marked by excessive sweating or n faintness. syllable / TsimbGSPsDs / Despite the sweltering heat, Gk + Gk thousands of people lined the syllabus the intimate living together of two streets to watch the Fourth of July n dissimilar organisms in any of parade. / SsilETbEs / various mutually beneficial Gk > L relationships. swill a compendium or summary outline Some insects depend on symbiosis of a discourse, course of study, or with bacteria to supplement swindleable examination requirements. otherwise nutrient-poor diets. adj After reading the syllabus for the / Sswind(F)lEbEl / seminar, Brad realized he had symbol G + Ecf made a terrible mistake by capable of being deprived of enrolling. symmetry money or property by fraud or deceit. symminct The circus owner maintained that the majority of people are gullible sympathy and swindleable.

Page 243 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently symphony synecdoche tabernacle n n n / Ssim(p)fEnG / / sDSnekdE(T)kG / / StabE(r)TnakEl / Gk + Gk Gk L > F > E an elaborate instrumental a figure of speech by which a part a meetinghouse with a large composition usually in sonata form is put for the whole or vice versa. assembly hall. for full orchestra. Fifty sail is a synecdoche for fifty The town meeting will be held at The concert program featured a ships. the tabernacle. symphony by Gustav Mahler. synod tabetisol symposiarch n n / SsinEd / / tESbeZETsOl / synchroneity Gk > L > E L + Ecf n an ecclesiastical council : a formal unfrozen ground above, within, or / TsiNkrEnSnGEZG / meeting to consult and decide on below the permanently frozen Gk + Ecf church matters. ground. the state of happening, existing, or Karl is an active participant in the Arctic wildflowers are able to arising at the same time. regional Presbyterian synod. survive in areas of tabetisol. The fireworks display was a spectacle of synchroneity. synopsis tableau n n syncopation / sDSnBpsDs / / StaTblP / n Gk F / TsiNkESpCshEn / a brief orderly outline affording a [Note: Plural form can be Gk > L general view. pronounced similarly.] a static a temporary displacement or Marvin read a plot synopsis before depiction usually presented on a shifting of the regular metrical he saw Macbeth. stage with participants in accent in a musical composition. appropriate costume. Syncopation is typical of much synoptophore The final scene is a tableau in Eastern European folk dance n which the family is gathered at the music. / sDSnBptETfP(E)r / gravesite. Gk syncope an instrument for diagnosing tabloidism n imbalance of eye muscles. / SsiNkE(T)pG / The ophthalmologist prescribed eye tabulable Gk exercises to correct the muscular a partial or complete temporary imbalance detected by the tachometer suspension of respiration and synoptophore. n circulation : faint, swoon. / taSkBmEZE(r) / Unexplained dizziness and syncope syntax Gk occasionally occur on arrival at a device for indicating the speed of high altitude. syringe rotation. n By watching the tachometer, Mr. syndicate / sDSrinj / Henderson was able to keep the n Gk > L > E engine running above 3000 rpm. / SsindDkDt / a device used to inject fluids into or L withdraw them from the body or its taciturn a loose association of racketeers in cavities. adj control of organized crime. Cameron let the toddler use an old / StasETtErn / The police have spent years trying ear syringe as a bathtub toy. L > F to get evidence to convict the head habitually silent : temperamentally of the local crime syndicate. tabby disinclined or reluctant to talk or converse. Mrs. Gibbons found it challenging to draw the taciturn boy into class discussions.

Page 244 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently taciturnity talisman tandem n n / TtasEStErnEZG / / StalDsmEn / tangerine L Gk > Ar > It > Sp > F n the quality or state of being an object thought to act as a charm / TtanjESrGn / disinclined or reluctant to talk or to avert evil and bring good Moroccan geog name converse. fortune. a variable color ranging from Gene and Leo’s taciturnity about Vern showed us his rabbit’s foot, moderate reddish orange to vivid or the cause of the scuffle resulted in a which he claimed was an effective strong orange. trip to the principal’s office. talisman. To Petra, the most beautiful color of mum is tangerine. tackline talkathon tangy tactful tallow adj n / StaNG / tactician / Sta(T)lP / Scand > E + Ecf E having a particularly pungent odor. tadpole the rendered fat of cattle and sheep The burning pile of old tires will that is used chiefly in making soap, leave the air tangy for several days. tagraggery glycerol, margarine, candles, and lubricants. tantalize taiga Inside of her little tent, the fortune v n teller began to shuffle her cards by / StantFlTIz / / StIgE / the light of a candle made from Gk name Turkish > Russ tallow. tease or torment by presenting [has near homonym: tiger] something to the view and exciting swampy coniferous forest of tallowy desire but continually frustrating Siberia beginning where the tundra the expectations by keeping it out ends. Talmudic of reach. Olga’s great-grandfather was born adj Philip used a rod and reel to in a cabin on the edge of the taiga / talSm(y)Vdik / tantalize the kitten with a toy mouse and grew up playing among spruce Heb tied to the fishing line. and fir trees. of, relating to, or characteristic of the authoritative body of Jewish tantamount tailgate law and custom developed on the adj basis of the scriptural law. / StantETmaUnt / takkanah The novel was full of Talmudic L > F > AF > E lore. equivalent in value, significance, or talcum effect. taloned Because of inflation, Jamie’s talebearer meager raise was tantamount to a tamale pay reduction. talipes n n / tESmBlG / tantivy / StalETpGz / Nahuatl > Sp adv L ground meat seasoned with chili or / tanStivG / a congenital deformity of the foot other filling, rolled up in cornmeal unknown in which the forepart is twisted into dough, wrapped in corn husks, and in a headlong dash. one of several directions : clubfoot. steamed. Patsy ran tantivy toward second Gordon’s talipes was so severe that Rosita ordered a tamale, two tacos, base after the bunt. surgery was needed to adjust the and a burrito from the street tendons and bones of his foot. vendor.

tamarack

tambourine

tamburello

Page 245 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently tapestry tarmac tattersall n n n / StapDstrG / / StBrTmak / / StaZE(r)TsOl / Gk > F > E + Ecf (E + Brit name) > trademark E name a heavy handwoven textile for a road, apron, or runway made of a fabric having a pattern of colored hangings, curtains, and upholstery. asphalt. lines forming squares of solid Teresa admired the vivid colors of Neil’s suitcase fell out of the background. the tapestry hanging in the airplane and its contents spilled out Jeanne bought a blue-and-white corridor. onto the tarmac. tattersall to make into a skirt. tapir tarpaulin taught n n / StCpE(r) / / tBrSpOlDn / tauntingly Tupi E + E [has homonym: taper] any of a a piece of material (as durable taupe genus of chiefly nocturnal hoofed plastic) used for protecting exposed n mammals of tropical America and objects or areas. / StPp / Myanmar to Sumatra that have the When rain began during the second L > F snout and upper lip prolonged into inning of the baseball game, the [has homonym: tope] a light a short flexible proboscis. ground crew rolled out the brownish gray. The tapir is both a browser and a tarpaulin to protect the field. It took some time, but Pam finally grazer, feeding on leaves, twigs, matched the taupe of her dress to a and fruits, as well as on grasses. tarragon pair of shoes. n tarantula / StarETgBn / tauromachy n Ar > L > F n / tESranch(E)lE / a small European perennial / tOSrBmEkG / It geog name wormwood grown for its aromatic Gk + Gk any of a family of large hairy foliage that is used in cooking. the art or practice of bullfighting. spiders that are capable of biting Paul planted tarragon in his herb The toreador is well known for his but are not significantly poisonous garden. slow, dignified style of tauromachy. to humans. Alexander’s friend tried in vain to tassel taut convince him to get a pet tarantula. tatami tautology tardigrade n n adj / tEStBmG / / tOStBlEjG / / StBrdETgrCd / Jpn Gk L a straw matting used as a floor an instance of needless or moving or stepping slowly. covering in a Japanese home. meaningless repetition in close The sloth is a well-known The Japanese restaurant had a succession of an idea, statement, or tardigrade animal. special room in which patrons word. could sit on a tatami while dining. The phrase a beginner who has just tariff started is a tautology. n tatterdemalion / StarDf / adj tautophony Ar > It / TtaZE(r)dDSmClyEn / n the duty or rate of duty imposed by Scand > E + unknown / tOStBfEnG / a government on imported or ragged or disreputable in dress or Gk exported goods. appearance. repetition of the same sound. A high tariff protects the home No one would have guessed that the The insistent tautophony of Josh’s industries from foreign tatterdemalion fellow is a alarm clock finally woke him up. competition. millionaire. tawdry

taxation

tazza

Page 246 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently technetronic temerarious tenacious adj adj technical / TtemESra(a)rGEs / / tDSnCshEs / L L > E tedious rashly or presumptuously daring : holding fast or tending to hold fast. reckless. Marjorie is tenacious in her belief tektite Mrs. Jasper punished Tim for his that her cousin was abducted by temerarious behavior by aliens and replaced by an impostor. telamon withholding certain privileges. n tenaculum / StelETmBn / temerity n Gk > L n / tDSnakyElEm / a male figure used as a supporting / tESmerEZG / L column or pilaster. L a slender sharp-pointed hook While in Athens, Anita had her unreasonable or foolhardy attached to a handle and used picture taken beside a telamon. contempt of danger or opposition. mainly in surgery for seizing and The private with the temerity to holding parts (as arteries). telecine speak up against the sergeant’s Connie slipped the tenaculum bullying was assigned to KP under the patient’s carotid artery. telegnosis indefinitely. n tendency / TtelESnPsDs / temperament n Gk + Gk / StendEnsG / knowledge of distant happenings temperate L obtained by occult or unknown adj a proneness to or readiness for a means : clairvoyance. / Stemp(E)rDt / particular kind of thought or action. The psychic claimed to have L > E Tom’s tendency to say exactly what telegnosis of events happening on having a moderate climate. he feels has gotten him into trouble the other side of the Atlantic. All of the United States, except for several times. Hawaii and parts of Alaska and telephone Florida, lies within the temperate tenderloin n zone. / StelETfPn / tendon Gk + Gk tempest n a device for reproducing sounds, / StendEn / especially articulate speech, at a tempestuous L distance. adj a tough cord of specialized fibrous Ginger’s parents asked her to limit / temSpes(h)chEwEs / connective tissue that unites a her time on the telephone to three L muscle with some other part and 15-minute conversations per night. of, involving, or resembling a transmits the force which the furious storm. muscle exerts. telesis The tempestuous action of wind The team doctor said that Larry’s n and waves imperiled the ships. Achilles tendon was inflamed and / StelEsDs / that he shouldn’t run in Saturday’s Gk tempura race. progress intelligently planned and n directed. / TtempESrB / tendresse The mayor revealed the city Jpn n council’s ten-year plan for telesis [has near homonym: tempera] / tBMdres / at the press conference. fritters of seafood and vegetables F fried in deep fat. tender feeling : fondness. telltale The waiter brought a small dish of Sarah portrayed the sister who, in vegetable tempura as an appetizer. maidenly fashion, conceals her tendresse for the hero.

Page 247 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently tenebrific tepid termagancy adj adj n / TtenESbrifik / / StepDd / / StErmEgEnsG / L + Ecf + L > Ecf L E name causing gloom or darkness. marked by an absence of habitual bad temper : scolding Tenebrific rain clouds enthusiasm or conviction. disposition. overshadowed the entire region. The debate drew a tepid response Lillian’s abusive termagancy from the audience. alienated her husband and tenement children. teratology tenon n termitarium n / TterEStBlEjG / / StenEn / Gk terrace L > F > E the study of malformations, n a projecting member in a piece of monstrosities, or serious deviations / SterDs / wood or other material for insertion from the normal type in growing L > OProv > F into a mortise to make a joint. organisms. a colonnaded porch or promenade. Curtis used his jigsaw to cut a Because of his several deformities, The marketplace consisted of a row tenon on each board of the box he the so-called “elephant man” is of shops along a terrace. was making. often featured in textbooks for courses in teratology. terrapin tensible n adj tercentenary / SterEpDn / / Sten(t)sEbEl / n Algonquian L / TtErsenStenErG / any of various North American capable of being extended. L turtles living in fresh or brackish The old rubber band was not very a 300th anniversary or its water. tensible. celebration. Murray awoke from his lakeside Next year Possumville will nap to find a terrapin sunning on tensile celebrate the tercentenary of its the blanket. founding. tension terraqueous tergiversate adj tentative v / terSCkwGEs / / StErjDvErTsCt / L tentatively L consisting of land and water. adv evade straightforward action or Global pollution threatens Earth’s / StentEZDvlG / clearcut statement of position. terraqueous environment. L While political leaders tergiversate, in a hesitant or uncertain manner. petty tyrants are taking over the terrarium Janna smiled tentatively, not country. n knowing if she should show her / tESrerGEm / happiness. tergiversation L n a fully enclosed wholly or tenuous / TtErjD(T)vErSsCshEn / predominantly glass container for adj L the indoor cultivation of moisture- / StenyEwEs / evasion of straightforward action or loving plants. L clear-cut statement of position. Mosses and other small woodland having little substance or strength : The ambassador explained that in plants thrive in a terrarium. flimsy, weak. diplomacy there is sometimes The prosecutor’s case was so defensible tergiversation in tenuous that the judge dismissed communication. the charge against the defendant.

Page 248 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently terrazzo tessitura thaumatology n n n / tESrBt(T)sP / / TtesEStUrE / / TthOmEStBlEjG / OProv > It L > It Gk a mosaic flooring made by the general range of a melody or doctrine, discussion, or study of the embedding small pieces of marble voice part; specifically : the part of performing of miracles. or granite in freshly placed mortar the register in which most of the Although he had never successfully and after hardening grinding and tones of a melody or voice part lie. performed any miracles, the young polishing the surface. Soprano parts in Bellini’s operas priest was nonetheless an expert in The contractor explained that if call for a very high tessitura. thaumatology. Travis wanted a hard, shiny floor at a reasonable price, terrazzo was testaceous thaumaturgy an excellent option. adj n / teSstCshEs / / SthOmETtErjG / terrestrial L Gk > L > F having a shell. the performance of miracles. terrible The oyster is a testaceous marine The sacred writings of many adj animal. religions contain stories of / SterEbEl / thaumaturgy. L > F > E tetanus requiring extreme effort or n theftproof fortitude. / StetFnEs / Donating blood may be a terrible Gk theocracy ordeal for those people who do not an acute infectious disease like needles. characterized by tonic spasm of theodicy voluntary muscles and especially of n terricolous the jaw muscles. / thGSBdEsG / adj Puncture wounds are dangerous Gk > F / teSrikElEs / because they allow the bacteria an area of philosophy that treats of L + L that cause tetanus to enter the the nature and government of God living on or in or growing from the body. and the destiny of the soul. land. One hotly contested question in The heath was rich in terricolous tetracycline theodicy is whether the existence of lichens. evil precludes the existence of an textuary omnipotent and perfect God. terrific adj thalassic theosophize / tESrifik / adj L / thESlasik / therapeutant of an extraordinary nature : Gk n astounding, tremendous. of or relating to the sea or ocean. / TtherESpyVtFnt / Terrific, serrated outcrops of bare Some thalassic currents travel for Gk > E rock stood on either side of the lush thousands of miles. a healing or curative agent or valley. medicine. thanatophobia The diseased elm trees were terrigenous n sprayed with a chemical adj / TthanEtESfPbGE / therapeutant. / tESrijEnEs / Gk L fear of death. therapeutic formed by the erosive action of Michael had such a strong belief in adj rivers, tides, and currents—used of an afterlife that he was not troubled / TtherESpyVZik / an ocean bottom. by thanatophobia. Gk At the brink of the continental shelf, of or relating to the treatment of terrigenous deposits build up and disease or disorders by remedial are swept away. agents or methods. Changes in diet can have a tertiary therapeutic effect on obesity, hypertension, peptic ulcer, and osteoporosis.

Page 249 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently therblig thesmothete thoroughfare n n / SthEr(T)blig / / SthezmETthGt / threaten anagram of Amer name Gk one of the manual, visual, or mental lawgiver, legislator. threnody elements into which an industrial Joseph has in his office a marble n manual operation may be analyzed bust of a famous Athenian / SthrenEdG / in time and motion study. thesmothete. Gk The supervisor’s goal was to a song, poem, composition, or eliminate one therblig at each thespian speech of lamentation especially station in the assembly line. n for someone dead or something / SthespGEn / regarded as dead. theretofore Gk name Asked to write a threnody for adv an actor. English class, Libby composed a / SLerZETfP(E)r / Fiona became stagestruck at an song about the death of a robin. E early age and was determined to up to that time : until then. become a thespian. threshold The public parks committee created n a playground where theretofore thirsty / SthreshT(h)Pld / there had been a weedy vacant lot. E thistle place or point of entering or therianthropic n beginning : entrance, outset. adj / SthisEl / Now at the threshold of adulthood, / TthirGTanSthrBpik / E James wonders if he will miss the Gk + Gk a plant with prickly leaves having a carefree days of his previous years. combining human and animal form. head with white, purple, pink, or The falcon-headed Horus was a yellow flowers. thrombosis therianthropic god of ancient Dean plucked a thistle from the n Egypt. lawn of the middle school. / thrBmSbPsDs / Gk thermometer tholepin the formation or presence of a n blood clot within a blood vessel. / thE(r)SmBmEZEr / thoracic The severe pain in Greg’s leg was Gk + Gk adj found to have been caused by a an instrument for determining / JESrasik / thrombosis in one of the veins. temperature. Gk The thermometer that takes a of, relating to, located within, or throstle temperature reading from one’s ear involving the part of the body of n is now used widely. humans and other mammals located / SthrBsEl / between the neck and the abdomen. E thesaurus The thoracic nerve controls the a largely olive-brown Old World n muscles in the walls of the thorax. perching bird noted for its song. / thDSsOrEs / While on a walking tour in London, Gk > L thoracodynia Madeline spotted a throstle in a a book containing a store of words n sycamore tree. or of information about a particular / TthPrEkESdinGE / field or set of concepts; specifically Gk thule : a dictionary of synonyms. pain in the chest. Caleb’s paper read as if he had When Grandpa complained of thumb consulted a thesaurus frequently thoracodynia, Dolly immediately while writing it. took him to the hospital. thurible n thoroughbred / Sth(y)UrEbEl / n Gk > L > F > E / SthErETbred / a vessel used in religious services E for burning incense. purebred or pedigreed animal. When a thurible is used in the Alex’s thoroughbred comes from a procession, the odor of incense line of Kentucky Derby winners. suffuses the church.

Page 250 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently thylacine tightrope tintinnabulation n / SthIlETsIn / tilapia tirade Gk > L n n a now-extinct somewhat doglike / tDSlCpGE / / StIrCd / carnivorous marsupial that L F formerly inhabited Tasmania— any of a genus of African a protracted speech usually marked called also “Tasmanian wolf.” freshwater food fishes that by abusive language. The female thylacine had a resemble the American sunfishes. The grumpy woman screamed a rearward-opening pouch in which Some American fish farms have tirade of protest whenever children two to four young were carried. been raising tilapia for stocking in made joyful noises outside her ponds and lakes. window. thyme n tilde tmesis / StIm / n Gk / StildE / tobacco [has homonym: time] a common L > Sp n garden herb used in seasoning and a mark ~ placed especially over the / tESba(T)kP / formerly in medicine. letter n to denote the /ny/ sound or Taino > Sp The chicken recipe called for a over vowels to indicate nasality. the leaves of a plant of the genus teaspoon of dried thyme. Marcia could not find the tilde on Nicotiana prepared and processed the computer keyboard. for use in smoking or chewing or as thymiaterion snuff. n tilth At an early age, Amy vowed never / TthImGEStirGEn / to use tobacco. Gk timorous a vessel used by the ancient Greeks toboggan for burning incense. tinctorial n Cecil found a bronze thymiaterion / tESbBgEn / in an antique shop. tincture Algonquian n a long flat-bottomed light sled tichorrhine / StiN(k)chE(r) / made of thin boards curved up at n L one end with usually low handrails / StIkETrIn / hue, tint. at the sides and used for coasting Gk > L The main difference between on snow or ice. an extinct two-horned woolly American and Irish glass is in Bart’s new toboggan is the fastest rhinoceros. tincture. one on the hill. The remains of a tichorrhine were found frozen in the ice of Siberia tinnient tobogganer with the flesh and hair well adj n preserved. / StinGEnt / / tESbBgEnEr / L Algonquian > F tickicidal having a clear or ringing quality. one that coasts on a long flat- adj Grandmother’s old silver knives bottomed light sled. / TtikESsIdFl / made a tinnient sound in the sink as On hitting the unexpected bump, E + L + Ecf we rinsed them after Thanksgiving the tobogganer was thrown off his destroying or controlling any of dinner. sled. several wingless parasitic insects. The exterminator used a tickicidal tinnitus tobogganing agent to eliminate the pests. n / tDSnIZEs / tickled L v a ringing, roaring, or hissing in the / StikEld / ears that is purely subjective. E It’s hard to understand how excited or stirred up agreeably. annoying tinnitus is unless you The young actor was tickled to be have experienced it yourself. offered the leading role in his next movie. tinselry

Page 251 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently toccata tonsure torrential n n / tESkBZE / / StBnchE(r) / torrentially It L > E adv a brilliant musical composition the shaven crown or patch worn by / tOSrenchElG / usually for pipe organ or monks or various clerics. L harpischord, in free fantasia style, The actor who played Brother in a manner resembling a rushing and usually with many equal-timed Cadfael had a hairpiece to cover stream of water. notes in rapid movement. his tonsure when he was off Patricia wept torrentially when she Jamila sat down at the church camera. found out about her pet dog’s organ and played a fast Bach injury. toccata. tontine n tortellini tocsin / StBnTtGn / n n It name > F / TtO(r)ZFlSGnG / / StBksDn / a financial arrangement whereby L > It L > OProv > F the participants share benefits noodle dough cut in rounds, filled [has homonym: toxin] an alarm equally on such terms that when with savory fillings, and boiled. bell or the ringing of a bell for the one dies or defaults the others Vic’s favorite Italian meal was purpose of alarm. equally share the portion until all tortellini stuffed with meat and In the event of a natural disaster or but one remains to own the cheese. a civil alert, the fire stations would entirety. set off a tocsin that could be heard In the days before a central bank or tortilla for two miles in any direction. common currency, villagers often n used a tontine to share ownership / tO(r)StG(y)E / toggery of property. Sp a round thin unleavened cake tongue toolach usually eaten hot with a savory topping or filling. tonitruous topaz Theron covered his tortilla with adj n beans and cheese. / tESnitrEwEs / / StPTpaz / L + Ecf Gk > L > F > E tortoise thundering, fulminating. a usually yellow, reddish, or pink n The tonitruous artillery guns had transparent mineral used as a gem. / StOrZEs / been shelling the enemy positions Leslie received a yellow topaz for F? > E for several hours. her birthday. any of a family of terrestrial turtles. The park ranger told the children tonsillectomy topiary that a tortoise takes five hours to n walk just one mile. tonsillitis / StPpGTerG / n Gk > L + Lcf tortoni / TtBn(t)sESlIZDs / the practice or art of training, n L cutting, and trimming trees or / tO(r)StPnG / inflammation of the tonsils. shrubs into odd or ornamental It name Dr. Graham treated Erica’s shapes. an ice cream made of heavy cream, tonsillitis with antibiotics. Edward Scissorhands was skilled in minced almonds, chopped topiary. maraschino cherries, or other tonsillotome flavorings. toroidal Tortoni is definitely not the dessert tonsorial adj for someone on a low-fat, low- / tPrSOidFl / calorie diet. L doughnut-shaped. For the life of her, Bridget couldn’t identify the toroidal object she found in her purse.

torpor

Page 252 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently totemism tractile transference n adj n / StPZETmizEm / / StraktFl / / tranzSfErEn(t)s / Ojibwa + Ecf L > Ecf L belief in kinship with or a mystical capable of being drawn out in an act, process, or instance of relationship between a group or length. carrying or taking something from individual and an emblematic plant, With laboratory equipment, Dr. one person or place to another. animal, or other object. Abrams was able to extend the Ralph’s dad was in charge of the Powerful animals are common tractile material to a great length. transference of fish from the fishery objects of totemism. to the lake being restocked. trafficking toucan v transient / StrafikiN / tourelle It > F transit engaging in commercial activity. n touristry The townspeople were shocked / Stran(t)sDt / when they learned that Mr. Bailey L tournedos had been trafficking in drugs. the passage of a smaller body n across the disk of a larger (as of / TtUrnESdP / tragedian Venus or Mercury across the Sun’s L > F disk). a small fillet of beef usually cut tragedienne Barrie used sensitive equipment to from the tip of the tenderloin. n photograph the transit of Venus. Diane usually prepares a tournedos / trETjGdGSen / in wine sauce with mushrooms. F translucent [Note: Could be confused with towhee tradegian.] an actress who transmissible specializes in tragic roles. adj toxicosis On Thursday night, Ms Siddons, / tran(t)SsmisEbEl / n the granddaughter of the L / TtBksESkPsDs / tragedienne, made her first capable of being sent or conveyed Gk appearance. to another person or place. a pathological condition caused by Poison ivy is transmissible through the action of a poison or toxin. tragedy the air to those who are very The chihuahua exhibited no sensitive to it. symptoms of toxicosis after eating trajectory the soap. transmit tralatitious toxophily transmogrify trammel v trachea / tran(t)SsmBgrETfI / transcend unknown tracheotomy change or alter in form, transducer appearance, or structure often with tractable n grotesque or humorous effect. adj / tran(t)sSd(y)VsE(r) / Buford set out to transmogrify the / StraktEbEl / L + Ecf hearse into a hot rod. L a device actuated by power from capable of being easily led, taught, one system and supplying power in trattoria or controlled. the same or any other form to a n Maybe Fatima’s work would second system. / TtrBZESrGE / improve if she were more tractable. A common transducer is a F > It microphone, which converts sound an eating house : restaurant. waves into electrical signals. It seems to Fran that any trattoria located next to the golf course fails, regardless of the cuisine.

traulism

Page 253 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently trauma treatise triage n n n / StraUmE / / StrGZDs / / trGSBzh / Gk F? > AF > E F an injury or wound caused by the a writing that provides in a the sorting of and allocation of application of external force or systematic matter and for an treatment to patients and especially violence. expository or argumentative battle and disaster victims The football player suffered the purpose a methodical discussion of according to a system of priorities trauma of a broken leg. the facts and principles involved designed to maximize the number and conclusions reached. of survivors. traumatize Victor’s treatise on international Once the system of triage was relations was well received by his implemented, medics were better traumatropism colleagues. able to decide which soldiers n should receive immediate / trOSmatrETpizEm / treillage treatment. Gk a modification of the orientation of trekked trianon an organ (as a plant root) as a result n of wounding. trellis / StrGETnBn / Traumatropism of the roots does F architecture not usually affect plant growth. trellised a small elegant villa. Albert wrote his latest thriller in a travesty tremulous rented trianon on the Riviera. adj treachery / StremyElEs / tribunal L n treacly quivering, shaking. / trISbyVnFl / adj Uncle Edgar’s tremulous L / StrGk(E)lG / handwriting is one sign of his a court or forum of justice. Gk > F > L > E Parkinson’s disease. The people have wisely provided, in heavily sweet and cloying. the constitution itself, a tribunal for Sarah’s treacly voice warned her trenchant settling questions of constitutional mother that a big request was law. forthcoming. trepidation tricenary treason trespass adj n v / StrIsFnTerG / / StrGzFn / / StrespEs / L L > F > E F > E having or lasting 30 days. the offense of attempting by overt make an unwarranted or uninvited Cameron never can remember acts to overthrow the government incursion. which months are tricenary. of the state to which the offender The rock salt from farmer Brown’s owes allegiance or to kill or shotgun taught Wally a painful tricephalous personally injure the sovereign or lesson: Don’t trespass. adj the sovereign’s family. / trISsefElEs / All persons involved in the tressed Gk attempted coup were charged with having or depicted with three treason. heads. Orpheus managed to lull the treasure tricephalous watchdog to sleep by playing his lyre.

Page 254 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently trichinosis triskelion troglodytic n n / TtrikESnPsDs / / trISskelGEn / trophallaxis Gk Gk n infestation with or disease caused a figure composed of three usually / TtrBfESlaksDs / by certain nematode worms curved or bent branches radiating Gk > L contracted by eating raw or from a center. exchange of food between undercooked infested food and A triskelion has been the emblem of organisms (as the social insects). especially pork. the Isle of Man since the 13th Bees, ants, and wasps practice Madeline cooked the pork chops century, when the Vikings were trophallaxis. well so there would be no danger of ousted. trichinosis. tropophilous triste adj trichotomy adj / trPSpBfElEs / n / StrGst / Gk + Gk / trISkBZETmG / L > F > E thriving in an environment that Gk sad, dismal, dull, depressing. undergoes marked periodic changes a system divided or divisible into A triste quartet could be heard (as in temperature, soil moisture, or three constituents or elements. from the window. available light). Golda’s civics teacher explained Deciduous trees of the temperate how the United States government triturate regions are examples of is a trichotomy, divided into the tropophilous plants. legislative, judicial, and executive triumph branches. trough triumphal n trickle / StrOf / triumvirate E trigonometry n [Note: The definition provided is n / trISEmvErDt / not the one most commonly / TtrigESnBmEtrG / L associated with this word.] an Gk a group, party, or association of elongated area of low barometric a branch of mathematics dealing three. pressure usually with a minimum with the relations holding among Vince, Steve, and Phil jokingly pressure at each end and between the sides and angles of triangles refer to themselves as the “terrible two areas of higher pressure. and among closely related triumvirate.” Eric listened to the weather magnitudes and especially with forecaster explain how the local methods of deducing from given trochaic weather was being influenced by parts other required parts. the trough that was present. Rachel enjoyed her course in trochanter trigonometry much more than she n trousseau enjoys her calculus class. / trPSkantE(r) / n Gk > L / StrV(T)sP / trihedral the second segment counting from F the base of the leg of an insect. [Note: Plural form can be trillion A trochanter is one of the five parts pronounced similarly.] the personal of an insect’s leg. possessions of a bride usually tripelennamine including clothes, accessories, and trochiline household linens and wares. tripod Felicity kept her trousseau in a troglodyte hope chest at the foot of her bed. n / StrBglETdIt / trove Gk > L a member of a primitive people trowel dwelling in caves or pits. While spelunking, Zan and Patrick stumbled on the bones of a troglodyte.

Page 255 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently truculent tufaceous tungsten adj adj n / StrEkyElEnt / / t(y)VSfCshEs / / StENstDn / L Osco-Umbrian > L > It Sw feeling or evincing savage ferocity of or resembling a rock composed a gray-white high-melting hard : fierce. of the finer kinds of volcanic metallic element that is used in the Hunger makes the tiger a truculent debris. pure form chiefly for electrical hunter. Many buildings in Italy were purposes (as for filaments for constructed of tufaceous rock. incandescent lamps). trumpet The filament in many light bulbs is tularemia a thin wire of tungsten. truncated n adj / TtVlESrGmGE / turban / StrENTkCZDd / Calif geog name + Lcf n L a bacterial disease of rodents, man, / StErbEn / abbreviated by or as if by lopping. and some domestic animals. Per > Turk > F Cindy’s cat has a truncated tail. Jerry’s temperature reached a a headdress worn chiefly in dangerously high level during his countries of the eastern truncheon bout with tularemia. Mediterranean and southern Asia especially by Muslims and made of trunnioned tulle a cap around which is wound a adj long cloth. / StrEnyEnd / tumefaction A camel driver wearing a blue F turban asked Rebecca if she would having a pin or pivot usually tumultuous like a short ride. mounted on bearings for rotating or adj tilting. / t(y)VSmElch(E)wEs / turbid Dave attached a trunnioned L compass to the deck of his sailboat. full of commotion and uproar : turbot boisterous. truttaceous As the basketball star entered, he turbulence adj received tumultuous applause from n / TtrEStCshEs / his schoolmates. / StErbyElEn(t)s / L L of, relating to, or resembling a tumulus highly irregular atmospheric trout. n motion characterized by rapid Truttaceous fish are highly / St(y)VmyElEs / changes in wind speed and esteemed as sport fish because of L direction and the presence of up their spiritedness. [has homonym: tumulous] an and down currents. artificial hillock or mound (as over The captain warned the plane’s trypanosome a grave). passengers to brace themselves for In the center of the cemetery is a a patch of turbulence. tsetse large tumulus where one of the town’s founders is buried. turgescence tsunami n tundra turgescent / (t)sVSnBmG / n Jpn / StEndrE / turgid a great sea wave produced by Finno-Ugric > Russ submarine earth movements or a treeless plain characteristic of turmoil volcanic eruption. arctic and subarctic regions with a n The dock workers were alerted in permanently frozen subsoil. / StErTmOil / time to evacuate the harbor area Do reindeer graze on the moss of unknown before the tsunami hit. the tundra? an utterly confused, extremely agitated, or tumultuous state or condition. Jacob experienced unrelenting turmoil after his parents informed him that the family might move.

Page 256 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently turnstile turricular typhlology n adj n / StErnTstI(E)l / / TtESrikyElE(r) / / tiSflBlEjG / E + E L Gk a post with four arms pivoted on shaped like or resembling a tower. the scientific study of blindness, its the top set in a gateway to regulate Shauna’s birthday cake was causes, effects, and control. or monitor passage. turricular and decorated to look Researchers in typhlology have Contrary to the prominently posted like the Leaning Tower of Pisa. found that certain nutritional warning sign, Calvin hopped over deficiencies can result in the the turnstile. turriferous clouding and softening of the cornea. turnverein tutania typothetae turophile tutelage n n tyrannical / St(y)UrETfIl / / St(y)VZFlij / adj Gk L / tDSranDkEl / a gourmet of cheese : a cheese instruction; especially : individual Gk fancier. instruction accompanied by close exhibiting imperious and usually The turophile warned us not to be personal attention and a conscious oppressive exercise of absolute beguiled by the low cost of inferior attempt at guidance. power : despotic. processed cheese. Evan made astounding progress Patrick Henry spoke fervently under the tutelage of his new about the urgent need to arrest the turpentine trumpet teacher. tyrannical hands of the British n ministry and Parliament. / StErpEnTtIn / tutelary Gk > L > F > E adj tyrannize any of various oleoresins that are / St(y)VZFlTerG / derived from coniferous trees and L tyrannous are obtained in crude form as having the guardianship or charge yellowish viscous exudates of of protecting a person or a thing. tyranny characteristic odor and taste from The young princesses were n incisions in the tree trunks and that surrounded by tutelary employees. / StirEnG / usually thicken and solidify in the L > F > E air. tutoyer absolute government in which The most common use of turpentine power is vested in a single ruler. is in paint and lacquer thinners. tuyere The tyranny of many medieval n kingdoms was eventually turpitude / tVSye(E)r / supplanted by democracy. n F / StErpETtVd / a nozzle through which an air blast ubiquitous L is delivered to a forge. adj inherent baseness or vileness of Dan checked the tuyere for an / yVSbikwEZEs / principle, words, or actions : obstruction. L depravity. existing or being everywhere at the Sean accused Amitab of moral twelfth same time : omnipresent. turpitude for teasing the cat. The drum is a ubiquitous tycoon instrument in world music. turret n udometer / StErDt / n F > E / yVSdBmEZE(r) / a little tower. L + Gk The princess escaped from the an instrument for measuring the turret by sliding down a rope of quantity of precipitation that falls at knotted bedsheets. a given place and time. The local television station asked Karen to put a udometer in her backyard.

Page 257 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently udomograph ululation umlaut n n uglify / TElyESlCshEn / / SUmTlaUt / L G ulcerous a loud mournful usually protracted a diacritical mark composed of two and rhythmical sound : howl. adjacent dots placed especially over ullage An ululation from deep in the a German vowel to indicate a woods gave Jesse goosebumps. vowel shift. ulotrichous Gary never knew how to pronounce adj umbilical words with an umlaut until he / yVSlBtrDkEs / adj studied German. Gk + Gk / TEmSbilDkEl / having woolly or crisp hair. L umpire The ulotrichous aborigines crafted attached by or as if by a cord n wide-toothed combs for their hair. arising at the navel that connects a / SEmTpI(E)r / fetus with the placenta. L > F > E ulterior Important medical research is one having authority to arbitrate adj being done with stem cells obtained and make a final decision, as an / TElStirGE(r) / from umbilical cords. official in a sport who rules on the L plays. not apparent : hidden. umbra The coach vehemently objected When Sherman volunteered to walk n when the umpire ejected the player the dog, his ulterior motive was to / SEmbrE / for unsportsmanlike conduct. escape the boring conversation in L the house. a shaded area : darkness. unabridged Trent saw something flicker in the ultimacy umbra beneath the side porch. unaccompanied ultimatum umbrage unanimous n n adj / TEltESmCZEm / / SEmbrij / / yVSnanEmEs / L L > F > E L a final proposition, condition, or displeasure, resentment, being of one mind : agreeing in demand; especially : one whose annoyance. opinion, design, or determination. rejection will end negotiations and Hatred between nations disposes The advice given the candidate by cause a resort to force or other each more readily to offer insult those in his confidence was direct action. and injury and lay hold of slight unanimous. If the striking workers refused its causes of umbrage. ultimatum, the company threatened unciferous to close the factory permanently. umbrageous adj adj / TEnSsif(E)rEs / ultraviolet / TEmSbrCjEs / L adj L > F > E bearing a hook or hooklike / TEltrESvIElDt / providing protection from heat and structure. L + L > F > E light : shady. Weaving and other fiber arts situated beyond the visible Sherwood Forest was the involve the use of several spectrum at the violet end and umbrageous domain of the unciferous tools. having a wavelength shorter than legendary Robin Hood and his visible light and longer than X rays. outlaw band. uncinate Arthur purchased sunglasses that adj provide some protection against umbrella / SEn(t)sEnDt / ultraviolet radiation. L bent at the tip like a hook. ululant Using a magnifying glass, Chad was able to examine the insect’s uncinate antennae.

Page 258 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently unconscionable unguent unison adj adj / TEnSkBnch(E)nEbEl / unguligrade / SyVnEsEn / Ecf + L + Ecf adj L > F not guided or controlled by an / SENgyElETgrCd / identical in musical pitch. internal sense of right or wrong : L The choir was well trained in unscrupulous. walking on hoofs. unison singing; every member The governor was denounced for Unguligrade mammals include could hit the same note perfectly. his unconscionable indifference to horses, cows, swine, camels, deer, the plight of the homeless. elephants, rhinoceroses, and tapirs. unisonous uncouth unhygienic universally adj / TEnSkVth / unicameral unparalleled Ecf + E lacking in polish and grace. unicorn unprincipled Last night we watched a movie n adj about turning an uncouth high / SyVnETkOrn / / TEnSprin(t)sEpEld / school student into a princess. L > F > E E + L a fabulous animal possibly based lacking or exhibiting a lack of a unctuosity on faulty old descriptions of the moral code of conduct. rhinoceros and generally depicted The detective described the arsonist unctuous with the body and head of a horse, as “unprincipled and the hind legs of a stag, the tail of a conscienceless.” underrate lion, and in the middle of the forehead a single long straight unpronounceable underread horn. Sarah has a poster of a beautiful unscrupulous undisciplinable white unicorn on her wall. adj / TEnSskrVpyElEs / undulance unilateral E + L unprincipled. undulate unintelligible Desmond was not so unscrupulous v adj as to betray his comrades. / SEnjETlCt / / TEnDnStelEjEbEl / L Ecf + E + L unsullied form or move in waves. difficult to comprehend. Terry stood on the shore and Dave readily admitted that he unveiled watched the ocean undulate in the found the article unintelligible. moonlight. upbraid unique undulation adj upeygan / yVSnGk / n unencrypted L / VSpCgEn / being without a like or equal : Shona unfeigned single in kind or excellence : a black rhinoceros. unequaled. The front horn of the upeygan can unforgettable The class agreed that Martin reach a length of over 30 inches. Luther King Jr. had a unique unfurl impact on civil rights in the 20th upheaval v century. / TEnSfErl / upholstery Ecf + L > F release or open out from a rolled-up state. Kendra embroidered her school’s motto on the new flag she will unfurl during tomorrow’s assembly.

Page 259 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently uppity usher utilitarian adj n adj / SEpEZG / / SEshE(r) / / (T)yVTtilESterGEn / E + Ecf L > F > E L > F > E marked by airs of superiority. one who escorts persons to seats at characterized by or aiming at Nicole forgave Amanda for her an assemblage (as in a theater, usefulness as distinguished from uppity behavior at the party. church, or hall). beauty or ornament. The usher informed the latecomers Dean chose a utilitarian briefcase uproarious that they would not be seated until over the fancy leather model. the end of the first act. urbiculture utility n ustulation / SErbETkElchEr / n utilizable L / TEs(h)chESlCshEn / adj the practices and problems peculiar L / SyVZFlTIzEbEl / to cities. the action of burning or searing. L > F > E The congressman proposed a new By ustulation the metallurgist capable of being made use of. federal department of urbiculture separated the sulfur from the ore. It took three months, but eventually to deal with the problems of city Leon was able to convert the dwellers. usufruct prototype into a utilizable product. n urceolate / SyVzETfrEkt / utterance adj L n / SErTsGElDt / the right to use or enjoy something. / SEZErEn(t)s / L The homeowners in Eleanor’s F > E shaped like an urn. neighborhood have a usufruct to a something that is spoken. At the end of the drive stood a pair large fenced park. Smoke and clamor accompanied of urceolate boxwoods. every utterance of the Great Oz. usurious urchin adj uxorial / yVSzhUrGEs / adj urgency L + Ecf / TEkSsPrGEl / involving or taking illegal or L > E ursine exorbitant interest for the use of of, relating to, or having the adj money. characteristics of a wife. / SErTsIn / The officers of the bank were The new bride’s conduct defied L charged with usurious practices. Mrs. Ketchum’s notions of proper [has near homonym: hircine] of, uxorial behavior. relating to, or characteristic of a usurper bear. n uxorious Some children are particularly / yVSsErpEr / fascinated by ursine hibernation. L vacation one that infringes or encroaches urticant upon the rights or property of vacationland adj another. / SErZDkEnt / By the end of his term, the mayor vaccary L had become known as a usurper of n producing itching or stinging. authority. / SvakErG / Strawberry nettles are notorious L for their urticant effect on human usury a place where cows or cattle are skin. kept : dairy farm. utensil The teacher plans to take her students to a vaccary during their study of the dairy food group.

Page 260 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently vaccinate vagary valorous v n adj / SvaksETnCt / / SvCgErG / / SvalErEs / L > F L L administer a preparation of a whimsical, fanciful, or brave, courageous. microorganisms in order to produce extravagant idea or notion. Carrie’s valorous behavior during or increase immunity to a particular George’s idea that he would be the flood earned her a medal. disease. spending his spring break in Paris Doctors no longer vaccinate was sheer vagary. valve American children against smallpox, as that disease was vagrancy vampire eradicated during the 1970s. n / SvCgrEnsG / vandalism vaccine L? n the state or offense of being a / SvandFTlizEm / vaccinoid person who has no established L > E residence and wanders idly from willful or malicious destruction or vacillate place to place without lawful or defacement of things of beauty or v visible means of support. of public or private property. / SvasETlCt / To clear the downtown area of The boys who knocked over the L homeless people, the mayor gravestones were eventually caught waver in mind, will, or feeling : instructed the police to arrest them and charged with vandalism. hesitate in choice of opinions or for vagrancy. courses. vanguard Theresa must allow more time to vaguely choose what she will wear if she vanilla cannot stop her tendency to vainness n vacillate. / vESnilE / valedictory L > Sp vacuity n a flavoring extract made by soaking / TvalESdikt(E)rG / comminuted vanilla pods in a vacuous L mixture of water and grain alcohol. adj a speech or farewell usually given The chef specified that real vanilla / SvakyEwEs / at the commencement exercises of be used when making the cake. L a school or college. emptied of or lacking content (as of Alice’s valedictory at graduation vanquish air or gas). brought the entire senior class to Vacuous spaces within the its feet. vapidity meteorite made it easy to split in half. valet vaporetto vacuum valetudinarian vargueno n vagabond / TvalETtVdFnSerGEn / variable adj L n / SvagETbBnd / a person of a weak or sickly / SverGEbEl / L > F > E constitution; especially : one whose L moving from place to place without chief concern is his invalidism. [Note: The definition provided is a fixed home. Grandpa hopes that he will never not the one most commonly Orson wanted to buy a motor home be a valetudinarian. associated with this word.] a star and lead a vagabond life, but whose brightness changes in more Eileen refused to sell their house. valiant or less regular periods. Clement spent six months tracking valley changes in the variable.

Page 261 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently varicose vealskin velocity adj n / SvarETkPs / vegetable / vDSlBsEZG / L L > F abnormally swollen or dilated. vegetarian quickness of motion : swiftness, Extreme cases of varicose veins adj speed. can require surgical treatment. / TvejESterGEn / George estimated the velocity of L > E + Ecf the wind at 22 miles per hour. variegated consisting wholly of edible plants. adj After spending two years in Japan, vendaval / Sver(G)ETgCZDd / Annabelle followed a vegetarian n L diet. / TvendESval / marked with different colors or F > Sp tints in spots, streaks, or stripes. vehemence an autumnal thundersquall on the A shady corner of the garden was n coast of Mexico. brightened by a clump of / SvGEmEn(t)s / A recent vendaval damaged the variegated coleus plants. L > F banana grove. the quality or state of being variolous expressive of strong emotion or vendetta conviction. n vassal Norm’s impetuosity and vehemence / venSdeZE / n of temper made him his own worst L > It / SvasEl / enemy. a prolonged feud marked by bitter Celt > L > F > E hostility. a feudal tenant. vehicle Chloe’s all-night party exacerbated The lord of the estate rewarded the the vendetta with her neighbor. vassal for years of faithful service. vein veneer vaticinator velitation n n / vDSni(E)r / vaudeville / TvelEStCshEn / G n L a thin sheet of wood cut or sawed / SvOd(E)vDl / [Note: Could be confused with from a log and adapted for F geog name vellication.] a dispute or slight adherence to a smooth surface (as a stage entertainment especially contest : skirmish. of wood). popular in the early decades of the Police used every means to keep The maple veneer really spruced up 20th century that consisted of the velitation from exploding into a the old pine table. various unrelated acts following riot. one another in succession and that veneniferous might include performing animals, velleity adj acrobats, comedians, dancers, n / TvenESnif(E)rEs / singers, or magicians. / vESlGEZG / L + Ecf Some of the stars of vaudeville went L bearing or transmitting poison and on to become movie actors. a slight wish : a faint desire. especially a natural venom. Mr. and Mrs. Newton found that Ellen couldn’t believe that anyone vaudevillian the hotel staff had anticipated their would want to work with n every velleity. veneniferous snakes for a living. / vOdSvilyEn / F geog name&L vellum venerable a writer or performer of stage n adj entertainments especially popular / SvelEm / / SvenEr(E)bEl / in theaters in the early decades of F > E L the 20th century. a thin calfskin specially prepared as deserving to be regarded with In his days as a vaudevillian, Mr. a surface for writing. profound respect and affection. Kramer was a comedian’s sidekick. Sanford carefully turned the rare The venerable teacher’s retirement vellum over to see if there was any saddened students who had hoped vault writing on the back. to benefit from her instruction. veal velocious

Page 262 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently vengeance verbatim verdolaga n adv n / SvenjEn(t)s / / vE(r)SbCZDm / / TvErdESlBgE / L > F > E L L > Ar > Sp infliction of punishment in return word for word : in the same words. an annual herb with fleshy leaves. for an injury or offense. Marcelle can recite the entire Latin American cooks use The defeated team howled with Gettysburg Address verbatim. verdolaga in soups and salads. rage and fury and swore bloody vengeance. verbena verdure n n venireman / vE(r)SbGnE / / SvErjEr / L F > E venom any of numerous garden plants that [has homonym: verger] fresh and n are widely cultivated for their green growing vegetation. / SvenEm / showy spikes of white, pink, red, or Joe walked back into the soft thick L > F > E blue flowers which are borne in verdure of the hills and tramped poisonous matter normally secreted profusion over a long season. until he was tired. by some animals (as snakes, Marcy noticed tiny flower buds on scorpions, or bees). her verbena in early April and verisimilitude The snake’s venom paralyzed its anxiously awaited its full bloom. n prey. / TverEsDSmilETtVd / verbigerate L + L ventilate v the quality or state of having the v / (T)vErSbijETrCt / appearance of truth. / SventFlTCt / L The artist’s scrupulous attention to L repeat a word or sentence endlessly detail provided an impressive cause fresh air to circulate through and meaninglessly. degree of verisimilitude. and contaminated air to be The psychiatrist explained that simultaneously withdrawn from. some schizophrenic patients often verjuice To ventilate her kitchen, Margo set verbigerate. n a fan in the doorway and opened / SvErTjVs / the windows. verbomania F > E n the sour juice of crab apples or ventriloquist / TvErbESmCnGE / other unripe fruit. n L + Gk Scrooge was the kind of person / venStrilETkwDst / excessive use of or obsession with who looked as though he drank L words. verjuice every morning. one who is skilled in the art of Frances was accused of speaking in such a manner that the verbomania by her classmates, who vermeil voice appears to come from some didn’t understand why she liked to source other than the vocal organs study spelling. vermicelli of the speaker. n A ventriloquist entertained at verdant / TvErmESselG / Rebecca’s birthday party. L > It verdigris alimentary paste made in long thin veracious n solid strings smaller in diameter adj / SvErdETgrGs / than spaghetti. / vDSrCshEs / L > F > E The restaurant’s five-way chili L + Ecf a green or greenish blue poisonous started with a base of vermicelli. [has homonym: voracious] pigment obtained by the action of observant of the truth : habitually acetic acid on copper. speaking the truth. The verdigris on the church steeple It was up to the jury to decide has aged beautifully. which of the two witnesses was the more veracious.

Page 263 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently vernacular vertigo vexatious adj n adj / vE(r)SnakyElEr / / SvErZDTgP / / vekSsCshEs / L L L belonging to or being a language or a disordered state in which the causing or likely to cause mental dialect developed in and spoken individual or the individual’s suffering. and used by the people of a surroundings seem to whirl dizzily. A lame carriage horse threw particular place, region, or country The constant rocking of the boat everything into sad uncertainty and in a form considered nonstandard. produced feelings of vertigo and created a situation Emma found Mr. Hillis could not understand the nausea in many of the passengers. most vexatious. vernacular language of the rappers. vesicant vexillology n vernissage / SvesDkEnt / viable L + E verricule an agent (as a drug or a plant vibraphone substance) that induces blistering. versatile Brittany wore thick gloves in order vibrato adj to avoid contact with the vesicant. / SvErsEZFl / vicegerency L vespacide [Note: The definition provided is n vicereine not the one most commonly / SvespETsId / associated with this word.] marked L vichyssoise by a tendency to change : one that kills wasps. n fluctuating readily. Mindy waved the can of vespacide / TvishGSswBz / Tricia’s versatile temperament threateningly at the nest of yellow F geog name made it impossible to predict her jackets. a soup made of pureed leeks and reactions. potatoes and usually served cold. vespertilian When vichyssoise is well made, it’s vertebrate heavenly; when it’s badly made, adj vespertine it’s inedible. / SvErZEbrDt / adj L / SvespE(r)TtIn / vicinage having a spinal column. L Vertebrate animals include fishes, setting with or just after the Sun. vicissitude reptiles, birds, and mammals. Venus is the most prominent n vespertine planet. / vDSsisETtVd / vertex L n vessel an accident of fortune : a shift of / SvErTteks / luck. L vestige By the vicissitude of winning the the point on the limb of a celestial n lottery, Helen was able to buy the body nearest the zenith. / Svestij / dream house she always wanted. The tiny dark spot near the Moon’s L > F vertex is a huge crater. a remaining bit that constitutes a vicontiel memorial or trace of something adj vertiginate formerly present. / vISkBntGEl / v Dmitri thought he detected a F > AF / TvErStijETnCt / vestige of natural gas odor in the of or relating to a viscount or L kitchen. sheriff. whirl dizzily around : twirl. Robin Hood was wanted by the Young children love to vertiginate veterinary vicontiel authorities of several until they fall down. counties. vexation vertiginous victorious

Page 264 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently viduity vilipend vinegar n v n / vDSd(y)VEZG / / SvilETpend / / SvinigE(r) / L L L > F > E widowhood. speak of slightingly or a sour liquid used as a condiment Wendy’s first husband was killed in disparagingly : depreciate. or a preservative that is obtained by the Gulf War, but her viduity ended The candidate decided to vilipend acetic fermentation of dilute when she remarried in 1994. her opponent instead of discussing alcoholic liquids (as fermented the issues. cider, malt beer, or wine) and is vigesimal often seasoned especially with villain herbs. vigilance n Pete used a special aged balsamic / SvilDn / vinegar in the salad dressing. vigilante L > F > E n [has homonyms: villein, villan] vineyard / TvijESlantG / one who deliberately plots and does n L > Sp serious harm to others. / SvinyE(r)d / a member of a volunteer committee The police were seeking the villain E organized to protect an interest, who conned several senior citizens a field of grapevines. especially to suppress and punish out of their savings. While touring a Napa Valley crime. winery, Jamie wandered through The cowboy movie was about a villainous the vineyard. rancher who became a vigilante and joined in the search for a villainy violated criminal. vinaigrette violin vigneron n n n / TvinESgret / / TvIESlin / / TvGnyESrPn / F OProv > It F a sauce made typically of vinegar, a bowed stringed instrument having one who cultivates a vineyard and oil, onions, parsley, and herbs. four strings, a shallow body, a makes wine from the grapes. The salad was dressed with a fingerboard without frets, and a The American vigneron was tomato-flavored vinaigrette. curved bridge. delighted that the French judges Reuben demonstrated his technical chose his wine as being among the vincible virtuosity on the violin when he world’s best. auditioned for the string ensemble. vinculum vignette n viridescent / SviNkyElEm / adj vilayet L / TvirESdesFnt / a unifying bond. L vilify Their mutual love of dolls is the greenish. v vinculum between Delia and Gideon removed the viridescent / SvilETfI / Christine, who are otherwise very scum from the bottom of the horse L different. trough and added fresh water. utter slanderous and abusive statements against : defame. vindicate virtue Wouldn’t it be refreshing if the v candidates vying for the office did / SvindETkCt / virtuoso not vilify each other? L n free from any question of error, / TvErchESwP(T)sP / dishonor, guilt, or negligence. L > It Oliver felt the judge’s decision one who excels in the technique of would vindicate him completely. an art; especially : a musical performer. The virtuoso took 12 curtain calls, setting a new record for the concert hall.

Page 265 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently virulent vitiate vocation adj v n / Svir(y)ElEnt / / SvishGTCt / / vPSkCshEn / L L L characterized by rapid course, make incomplete, faulty, or [Note: The definition provided is severity, and malignancy—used defective : injure the substance or not the one most commonly especially of a disease or infection. quality of. associated with this word.] a The virulent strain of flu spread Freddie argued that Clark’s poor summons from God to an rapidly through the community. acting abilities would vitiate the individual to undertake the school play. obligations and perform the duties visage of a particular task or function in vitreous life. visceroptosis adj The parents of Thomas Aquinas n / SvitrGEs / entreated him to abandon his / TvisErBpStPsDs / L religious vocation and return L + Gk of, relating to, derived from, or home. downward displacement of the consisting of glass. abdominal organs. The huge vitreous wall of vociferate The growth of the tumor had skyscrapers reflected the mountains caused visceroptosis. and the sunset. vociferous adj viscount vitrine / vPSsif(E)rEs / n n L / SvITkaUnt / / vDStrGn / marked by or given to ready L > F > E L > F vehement insistent outcry. a noble ranking below an earl and a glass showcase for display (as of A vociferous couple in the back row above a baron. fine wares or specimens). ruined our evening at the poetry The viscount had no children and Allegra has a large vitrine that reading. was becoming desperate to have an houses her collection of porcelain heir. figurines. vogue viscous vitriolic volante adj adj / SviskEs / / TvitrGSBlik / volatile L L > F > E adj [Note: Could be confused with marked by a caustic biting quality. / SvBlEZFl / viscose.] having the physical Howard had to be reprimanded for L > F property of a fluid or semifluid that his vitriolic outbursts against the easily passing off by evaporation. enables it to develop a certain referees and opposing players. The fact that gasoline is highly amount of shearing stress volatile produces an advantage in dependent upon the velocity of vituperative starting engines. flow and then to offer continued adj resistance to the flow. / (T)vIStVpETrCZiv / volition Joe was surprised to learn that L n glass is viscous, as evidenced by containing or characterized by / vPSlishEn / the fact that a windowpane, over wordy abuse. L time, becomes thicker at its lower Josh’s dad gave him a vituperative the act of willing or choosing : the edge and thinner at its upper edge. lecture after the accident. act of deciding. The notary public asked Nigel to visibility vivacity state that he was signing the n contract of his own volition. / TvizESbilEZG / vizierial L the degree or extent to which vocabulary something is capable of being seen. The captain announced that visibility was approximately five miles.

Page 266 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently volubility vulture wallaby n n n / TvBlyESbilEZG / / SvElchE(r) / / SwBlEbG / L L > E Australian name talkativeness. any of various large raptorial birds any of various small or medium- The cheerful volubility at Mrs. related to the hawks, eagles, and sized kangaroos. King’s luncheon is largely due to falcons but having weaker claws The wallaby usually feeds in the the fact that she is a great hostess. and a usually naked head and that safety of dusk or darkness. subsist chiefly or entirely on the voracious decaying flesh of dead animals. wallet The turkey vulture rarely gets vorago credit for its help in removing wallop n unfortunate opossums and skunks v / vESrCTgP / from our roadways. / SwBlEp / L F [has near homonym: virago] an waffle gain a decisive victory over : beat engulfing chasm : abyss. n by a wide margin : trounce. Before he knew it, Beck had / SwBfEl / Coach Garrett predicts that the crossed the bridge over the vorago. D Cougars will soundly wallop the a crisp cake made of pancake batter Buccaneers. vorlage baked in a specialized appliance. n For breakfast, Mary ordered a waltz / SfPrTlBgE / waffle topped with blueberry n G compote. / SwOlts / the position of a skier leaning G forward from the ankles usually waggish a moderately fast dance in three- without lifting the heels from the quarter time with a strong accent on skis. wagonload the first beat of the measure and The object of the vorlage is to keep characterized by one step per beat. the body of the skier perpendicular waif When the band started playing a to the slope. waltz, Marilyn hoped that someone wainscot would ask her to dance. vorspiel n / SwCnzkEt / wander vowel D > E the lower three or four feet of an wantonness vulnerable interior wall when finished n adj differently from the remainder of / SwOntFn(n)Ds / / SvElnEr(E)bEl / the wall (as with wood panels, tile, E L or marble slabs). the quality or state of being without capable of being wounded : Michelle chose a striped wallpaper check or limitation. defenseless against injury. for the wainscot in the dining room. The wantonness of comfort Maggie’s sensitive nature made her Georgetta experienced as a young vulnerable to cross remarks. wainwright child caused her to become a spoiled brat. vulnerary waldmeister adj n wapiti / SvElnETrerG / / SwOldTmIstE(r) / n L G + L > G / SwBpEZG / promoting the healing of wounds : a small European sweet-scented Algonquian curative. herb. a North American deer similar to There was a section in the old The Germans use waldmeister to the European red deer but medical book about vulnerary flavor May wine. considerably larger. herbs. The older male wapiti is often hunted for its antlers. vulpine

Page 267 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently warden watercress weevil n n n / SwOrdFn / / SwOZE(r)Tkres / / SwGvEl / Gmc > F > E E E an official in charge of the a white-flowered plant growing in any of numerous snout beetles in operation of a prison. water with leaves that are used in which the head is elongated and The warden recommended that the salads. usually curved downward to form a disruptive prisoner be denied Jesse added some watercress and snout bearing the jaws at the tip. parole. carrots to the tossed salad. The boll weevil is a serious pest to the cotton crop in North America. warehouse waxen weigh warison wearisome v adj / SwC / warmonger / SwirGsEm / E E [has homonym: way] evaluate : warmth tiresome, tedious. ponder. Gondolph found hearing accounts Mrs. Avery asked Sam to weigh the warrior of other people’s dreams potential consequences of his n wearisome. decision. / SwOryEr / E weasel weird a human engaged or experienced in n adj warfare and especially in primitive / SwGzEl / / Swi(E)rd / warfare or the close combat typical E E of ancient or medieval times. any of various small slender active [has homonym: weired] curious in The warrior attended a council carnivorous mammals that are nature or appearance : of strange or before battle in the morning. mostly reddish brown with white or extraordinary character. yellowish underparts and in Most episodes of The X-Files begin wasabi northern forms turn white in winter. with a weird or puzzling event. n In the snow the white fur of the / SwBsEbG / weasel camouflages it against welfare Jpn attacks by hawks or owls. an Asiatic herb whose greenish root welfarism is grated and eaten with fish or weather n other food. / SwelTfa(a)TrizEm / In Japan, Pam had raw fish webelos E + Ecf seasoned with wasabi, which tasted n the complex of policies, attitudes, like horseradish. / SwGbETlPz / and beliefs associated with a E acronym welfare state. washtrough a Cub Scout of the fifth rank who is Free health care was touted as one at least 10½ years old and is of the benefits of welfarism. wasteweir preparing for entrance into Boy n Scouts. welkin / SwCstTwi(E)r / Noah spent his second year as a n L > F > E + E webelos working on his fitness, / SwelkDn / a notch in a levee or other barrier geologist, and handyman activity E across a stream for the escape of badges. the celestial regions as the abode of superfluous water. God or the gods : the heavens. A wasteweir was constructed in the weddellite The hymn that begins “Hark! The dam to prevent flooding along the herald angels sing” was originally banks of the stream. wedge written as “Hark how all the welkin rings.”

wellaway

welterweight

wharf

Page 268 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently wharfinger whimsical whisk n adj n / S(h)wO(r)fEnjE(r) / / ShwimzDkEl / / Shwisk / E unknown Scand > E a person or company operating a resulting from or determined by a small usually wire kitchen marine terminal with facilities for sudden unpredictable impulses. implement used for hand beating of the berthing of ships and the Ichabod became the object of food (as eggs, cream, or potatoes). loading, unloading, and storage of whimsical persecution to Brom and Rose used a whisk to beat the egg goods. his gang of rough riders. whites into a stiff froth. The wharfinger keeps a parrot in his office. whimsicality whisperer n wheedle whininess / ShwispErE(r) / v n E / ShwGdFl / / ShwInGnDs / one that speaks softly with the aim unknown E of preserving secrecy. get or take something from by the quality or state of complaining Reverend Loomis scanned the using soft words or flattery. or lamenting with or as if with a congregation in vain, searching for Ginger’s attempt to wheedle ten prolonged high-pitched sound. the whisperer. dollars out of her father was Allen’s habitual whininess when unsuccessful. asked to do something he didn’t whist like annoyed both his teacher and n wheelbarrow his classmates. / Shwist / imit E wheelwright whinyard a four-player card game from n which bridge evolved. / S(h)wGlTrIt / whippersnapper In learning to play whist, Carole E found it helpful to make a chart of a person whose occupation is to whippet its similarities to bridge. make or repair circular frames of metal, wood, or other hard material. whippoorwill whistleable In the days of the horse and buggy, n adj the wheelwright had an essential / S(h)wipE(r)Twil / / ShwisElEbEl / job to do. imit E + Ecf a nocturnal bird of the eastern capable of being whistled. whelk United States and Canada that is Rufus could botch up even the most seldom seen although its call is whistleable tune. wherewithal often heard at nightfall or just n before dawn. whodunit / S(h)we(E)rwDTLOl / At camp Nick recorded the call of a n E + E + E whippoorwill. / hVSdEnDt / financial resources : money. E Everyone was surprised that Jake whirligig a detective story or a mystery story had the wherewithal to buy a n presented as a novel, a play, or a sailboat. / ShwErlETgig / motion picture. E The whodunit proved to be the most wherry a child’s toy having a whirling or popular play at the summer theater. spinning motion. whetstone Sandy bought a whirligig at the wholesale dime store. adv whimper / ShPlTsCl / v whirlwind E / ShwimpE(r) / n in a manner of, relating to, or imit / ShwErlTwind / engaged in the sale of goods or make a low whining plaintive or Scand > E + E commodities in quantity for resale. broken sound. a small rotating windstorm of Juliana purchased several store Laura’s dog starts to whimper limited extent. fixtures wholesale. whenever he wants to be fed. A whirlwind is sometimes called a “dust devil.”

Page 269 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently wholesome witloof wok adj n n / ShPlsEm / / SwitTlPf / / SwBk / E D Chin promoting health of body : health- chicory; also : its crown of foliage [has near homonym: walk] a bowl- giving. as a salad green. shaped cooking utensil used Ellie sometimes ate junk food Emily decided to vary her salad by especially in the preparation of rather than the wholesome lunch using witloof instead of lettuce. Chinese food. her mother had made for her. Lydia received an electric wok as a witticism housewarming gift. whorlywort n n / SwiZETsizEm / wolveboon / ShwO(E)rlGTwErt / E E a clever or amusing expression. womp a tall perennial herb—called also The careful use of a witticism in “Culver’s root.” Kevin’s speech helped hold the wondrous Darnell bought a hand-colored attention of his listeners. engraving of a whorlywort at the worrisome auction. wizardry n wraith whortleberry / SwizE(r)drG / n n E / SrCth / / ShwErtFlTberG / magic skill : sorcery, witchcraft. unknown E Merlin practiced his wizardry at an apparition of the exact likeness a sweet edible European blueberry. the court of King Arthur. of a living person seen usually just The unripe whortleberry was too before that person’s death. sour for Vernon to eat. wizen The wraith of a person shortly to die is a firm article in the creed of wickiup wobbulator Scottish superstition. n n / SwikGTEp / / SwBbyETlCZE(r) / wrangler Sac, Fox, & Kickapoo G + Ecf a hut used by Native Americans a testing device for radio sets in wrasse that is typically elliptical in form which the frequency is varied and has a rough frame covered by periodically and automatically over wreak reed mats or grass. a predetermined range. As they constructed the wickiup, the The primary function of a wreath campers were careful to leave a wobbulator is broadcast receiver n hole in the top for campfire smoke testing. / SrGJ / to escape. E woebegone a coronet, band, or fillet of width adj intertwined flowers or leaves worn / SwPbGTgOn / or bestowed as a mark of honor or wince E victory or symbol of esteem. exhibiting a condition of suffering, The figure on the vase wearing a winsome sorrow, or misery. laurel wreath is identified as adj The teacher looked up at 20 Apollo. / Swin(t)sEm / woebegone faces staring at the E essay question. wreckage pleasant because of cheer, childlike n nature, and open candor. woebegoneness / Srekij / The little tyke’s winsome smile won Scand > AF > E him many friends. something that has been reduced to a ruinous state by wintriness violence : the remains of a wreck. Cleaning up the wreckage from the wirrah tornado would take money as well as time. wiseacre

Page 270 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently wren xanthoma xylophone n n wretched / zanSthPmE / / SzIlETfPn / adj Gk Gk + Gk / SrechDd / a condition that is marked by the a musical instrument consisting of E development (as on the eyelids, a series of wooden bars graduated squalid, dismal, foul. neck, or back) of irregular yellow in length and sounded by striking After the flood, the whole patches or nodules. with two small wooden hammers. neighborhood looked wretched. High cholesterol or triglyceride Many African musical instruments levels can be factors in causing are variations of the xylophone. wriggle xanthoma. v xylophonist / SrigEl / xenocentric G? > E xylotomy move the body or a bodily part to xenogamy and fro with short writhing motions n xystus like a worm. / zDSnBgEmG / Zakia was startled when she saw a Gk yacht snake wriggle through the tall fertilization by cross-pollination; grass. especially : cross-pollination yachtsman between flowers on different n writhe plants. / SyBtsmEn / v Xenogamy may occur by wind or by G > D + E / SrIL / bees carrying pollen from plant to [Note: Plural form is pronounced E plant while feeding on nectar. identically.] a person who owns or move or proceed with twists and sails a boat used for pleasure, as for turns. xenophobia racing or cruising. Silently, we watched a seven-foot Mike fancied himself a true boa constrictor writhe through the xerosis yachtsman after one week at sea. trees. n / zDSrPsDs / yammer wunderkind Gk n abnormal dryness of the skin. yannigan / SvUndE(r)Tkint / Xerosis can be an indication of an G underlying health problem. Yarborough a child prodigy : one who succeeds n in a competitive or highly difficult xerostomia / SyBr(T)bErE / field or profession at an early age. n E name Mozart, a famous wunderkind, / TzirESstPmGE / a hand in bridge or whist wrote complicated sonatas at the Gk containing no card higher than a age of five. abnormal dryness of the mouth due nine. to insufficient secretions. Gene was not sure how to signal to xanthic Xerostomia was one of the drug’s his bridge partner that he held a adj side effects. Yarborough. / Szan(t)thik / Gk xyloglyphy yardage of a flower : colored with some tint of yellow. xylography yarrow The forsythia rivals the daffodil for being the loveliest xanthic bloom in xylophagous yawl Cynthia’s garden. xylophilous yearn xanthism

Page 271 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently yeast yore zephyr n n n / SyGst / / SyP(E)r / / SzefE(r) / E E Gk a substance used in baking and the [has homonym: your] time past a soft warm breeze from the west. fermentation of alcoholic beverages and especially long since past. The gentle zephyr was not sufficient : leaven. Adam’s favorite books contain to keep Renee’s kite airborne. The sourdough bread recipe called stories about knights of yore. for two packages of yeast. zeppelin youngster n yeasty / Szep(E)lDn / youthfully G name yeoman a rigid airship. yowl Olga’s dream was to ride in a yeomanry zeppelin one day. n ytterbium / SyPmEnrG / zeugma E yule n the whole body of small farmers / SzVgmE / who cultivate their own land; yuletide Gk specifically : the body of small the use of a word in the same landed proprietors of the middle zaguan construction with two adjacent class. words in the context with only one Among the legal privileges of the zaibatsu of which it is appropriate in sense. yeomanry was the right to serve as n pl The statement “John upset the a juror. / zISbBt(T)sV / table and his mother” is, one would Jpn hope, a zeugma. yewberry the powerful financial and industrial conglomerates of Japan. zircon ylem Keiko intended that her electronics n company become one of the / SzErTkBn / yoga zaibatsu. It > F > G n a mineral occurring in brown or / SyPgE / zeal grayish square prisms or sometimes Skt n in transparent forms which are used union of the individual self with the / SzGl / as gems. universal spirit. Gk > L > E The zircon in Wendy’s ring looks The teacher explained that through impassioned eagerness. very much like a diamond. years of mental and physical Russell entered into his new job exercise, she had been able to with great zeal. zoanthropy attain a complete yoga. zealot zodiac yokel n zealous zodiacal / SyPkEl / adj imit E zebra / zPSdIEkEl / an unpolished, naïve, or gullible Gk inhabitant of a rural area or of a zenith of, relating to, or within the zodiac. small town. n Jessica has a pendant in the shape The pool hustler disguised himself / SzGnDth / of Pisces, her zodiacal symbol. as a yokel to lure unsuspecting Ar > Sp > L > F > E victims. the point of culmination : peak, zoning summit. Winning the Faculty Award was the zoological zenith of Stephanie’s college career.

Page 272 2003 Scripps Howard National Spelling Bee Consolidated Word List: Words Appearing Frequently zoophilist n / zPSBfElDst / Gk + Gk + Ecf a lover of animals; especially : a person concerned with the rights of lower animals and their protection from abuse. The noted zoophilist explained how deforestation is endangering several species of mammals and birds. zootechny zucchetto n / zVSkeZ(T)P / L > It a small round skullcap worn by Roman Catholic ecclesiastics in colors that vary according to the rank of the wearer. In public appearances, the pope usually wears a white cassock and zucchetto. zucchini n / zVSkGnG / It a slender green summer squash. Tim picked a large zucchini from his garden. zwieback n / SswGTbak / G a usually sweetened bread enriched with eggs that is first prepared and baked and then sliced and toasted until dry and crisp. Liza placed a slice of zwieback on the baby’s tray. zygosis zymology

Page 273