The winning word at the first Scripps National Spelling Bee was this, a plant & genus with sword-shaped leaves now on the trophy
On the September 11, 2025 episode of Jeopardy, the Final Jeopardy clue turned the spotlight on an iconic moment in American educational history. The clue asked for the word that not only won the very first Scripps National Spelling Bee, but also now graces the champion’s trophy.
Contents
What is Gladiolus?
The correct response: gladiolus — a genus of flowering plants known for their tall, striking spikes and sword-shaped leaves.
The Scripps National Spelling Bee dates back to 1925, when it began as a modest local competition before growing into a nationally televised event showcasing young spelling prodigies. In that very first competition, 11-year-old Frank Neuhauser from Louisville, Kentucky, correctly spelled “gladiolus” to win the title. The word itself comes from the Latin gladius, meaning “sword,” which describes the shape of the plant’s leaves.
Gladiolus: More Than a Spelling Word
The choice of “gladiolus” as the winning word in 1925 was notable not only for its botanical roots, but for the level of difficulty it presented at the time. Although not obscure, it’s a word that combines Latin etymology, botanical terminology, and pronunciation challenges — all hallmarks of a great spelling bee word. Over the years, the Scripps Bee has evolved to feature increasingly complex and less commonly used vocabulary, but “gladiolus” remains a symbol of its origins.
In recognition of the event’s history, the official Scripps National Spelling Bee trophy was redesigned in recent years to include a representation of the gladiolus flower. It serves as a tribute to that foundational moment and a reminder of the competition’s long-standing tradition of academic excellence.
The Evolution of the Bee and Its Symbols
Since that first competition in 1925, the Scripps National Spelling Bee has grown into a national institution. Today’s contestants train rigorously for months — sometimes years — to master words from languages ranging from Latin and Greek to Sanskrit and Japanese. The event has also adapted to changing times, incorporating digital tools and remote participation during the pandemic, and embracing new ways to celebrate young spellers.
The gladiolus on the trophy isn’t just a decorative flourish. It links each new generation of champions to the very first, grounding the competition in its nearly century-old roots. As a symbol, it bridges past and present, reminding audiences of where the Bee began and how far it has come.
A Botanical and Linguistic Journey
The plant gladiolus is native to Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean region, and has long been associated with strength and honor — traits symbolized by the sword-like shape of its leaves. The name itself is a diminutive of the Latin word gladius, which also gave rise to the term “gladiator.” In fact, Roman gladiators were often presented with gladiolus flowers as a sign of victory.
In linguistic terms, “gladiolus” is a classic example of a word that appears straightforward but contains silent letters and potentially confusing vowel sounds, making it a perfect challenge in a spelling competition. It has since earned a permanent place in American spelling lore, not just as a word, but as a legacy.
A Fitting Final Jeopardy Tribute
Thursday’s Final Jeopardy clue was a fitting nod to educational achievement and American cultural tradition. By spotlighting the word “gladiolus,” the clue offered more than just a trivia question — it offered a brief glimpse into the origins of one of the country’s most beloved academic contests. For viewers who appreciate language, history, and tradition, it was a moment that tied together all three in a single, elegant answer.
