Scripps National Spelling Bee finalists flex their knowledge quietly
The Scripps National Spelling Bee is down to 11 finalists, many of whom flash their knowledge onstage by asking questions even though they know the answers
By BEN NUCKOLS
Published - May 31, 2023, 07:01 PM ET
Last Updated - Jun 21, 2023, 02:24 PM EDT
OXON HILL, Md. (AP) — Confidence on the Scripps National Spelling Bee stage manifests itself in subtle ways, like spellers asking questions even though they know the answers.
Dev Shah, one of 11 spellers who made it through Wednesday's semifinals and will return Thursday to compete for the winner's trophy and more than $50,000 in cash and prizes, was given the word “Perioeci” and quickly eliminated any suspense with his onstage banter.
“Does this come from the Greek ‘peri,’ meaning around?” Dev asked.
“Yes,” said the Rev. Brian Sietsema, the bee's associate pronouncer.
