The competition came down to a spell-off. Contestants were eliminated early, and a sixth grader became a crowd favorite.

© Eric Lee for The New York Times

The remaining spellers are 12 to 14, and represent five states as well as the District of Columbia.

© Allison Robbert/Associated Press

English’s hybrid history, silent letters and overcomplicated rules are what make the competition fierce.

Nearly 250 contestants from around the nation and the world traveled to Washington for a chance at glory and a $50,000 cash prize.

© Jose Luis Magana/Associated Press