With the Scripps National Spelling Bee on the horizon, now is the perfect time for sports fans to develop their ability to form words.
Here's a list of terms that may be featured later this week on ESPN.
absquatulate
v. leave abruptly
If LeBron James fails to win a title with the Heat, don't be surprised if he absquatulates to another contender.
callipygian
adj. having well-shaped buttocks
Misty May-Treanor's callipygian figure should turn some heads in London this summer.
Camelot
n. a place associated with glittering romance and optimism
For Arizona Cardinals fans, the retirement of Kurt Warner is sometimes referred to as "the end of Camelot."
equanimity
n. mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, esp. in a difficult situation
Even in the most pressure-filled moments, Michael Jordan shot the ball with equanimity.
Humuhumunukunukuapua'a
n.
a small Hawaiian triggerfishIf the Pro Bowl was no longer held in Hawaii, the NFL's top players would be denied a chance to spot a Humuhumunukunukuapua'a.
mendacious
adj. not telling the truth, lying
Though Manu Ginobili is known for mendacious play, there are many NBA officials who, unfortunately, continue to be fooled by his flops.
Mephistophelean
adj. showing the cunning or ingenuity or wickedness typical of a devil
Randy Johnson's cold, Mephistophelean stare unsettled anyone who stepped into the batter's box.
Neufchatel
n. a type of cheese
Do they sell Neufchatel at Lambeau Field?
parsimonious
adj. unwilling to spend money or use resources; stingy or frugal
The parsimonious Robert Sarver isn't Phoenix Suns fans' favorite owner.
peculate
v. to steal or take dishonestly
Ricky Henderson made a career out of peculating bases.
Sources: spellingbee.com, dictionary.com
