Zynga has announced its collaboration with the Scripps National Spelling Bee leading up to its 2021 conclusion. Through the Bee’s finals on July 8, the Words With Friends ‘Word of the Day’ will be the winning word from each of the eight 2019 champions and self-proclaimed “Octochamps,” who ended the Bee’s most recent circuit with an eight-way tie. 

“The Scripps National Spelling Bee contestants spend years preparing for this linguistic contest of intellect and calm under pressure,” says Bernard Kim, president, publishing, Zynga. “Our Words With Friends players are also lovers of words and friendly competition, and I could not think of a better beacon of inspiration than these Spellers to encourage us to continue to learn, strive and achieve. Best of luck to the 2021 contestants at the July 8 finals and our congratulations to all competitors.”

Following a hiatus in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this year’s event will culminate in a live, televised event on July 8, with the winner taking home the Scripps Cup trophy. In preparation for the Bee’s return, the Octochamps will connect players of Words With Friends with their moments of spelling triumph in this eight-day ‘Word of the Day’ takeover.

“We’re thrilled to be bringing the Scripps National Spelling Bee back in 2021 so that we can give some truly exceptional spellers the opportunity to show off their mastery of the dictionary and return this American tradition to TV screens across the country,” says Dr. J. Michael Durnil, executive director, Scripps National Spelling Bee. “Games and play are powerful tools for learning, and we’re excited to work with Zynga to bring additional joy and attention to this year’s event through their Words With Friends community.”

As players click the ‘Word of the Day’ cell during this initiative, they can also access the word’s definition and a photo of the 2019 champion moment.