Nicholas D'Sa, speller 101, misspelled "jalap," the dried purgative tuberous root of a Mexican plant or the powdered drug prepared from it.
The California eighth grader spelled nepotism, macronutrient, basileus, chorea, atala, capillaire, huiscoyol, alloeostropha, oeconomus and lobbygow correctly in his first Bee.
Nicholas said he tries to keep calm and take deep breaths when he spells.
"I'm really honored and excited, but nervous, of course," he said. "I'm just really excited. It's a chance to be on national television."
He said it's interesting to see how words evolve over time.
Nicholas enjoys piano competitions and playing tennis. He also likes to read, and is looking forward to a trip to Hawaii this summer.