spell-off
nounEtymology From spell + -off.
1
In a spelling bee, an instance when two or more spellers go through several rounds without any being disqualified.
2
Broadly A spelling bee.
spell off
verbalso spelled spell-offUS /ˌspɛl ˈɔf/ · UK /ˌspɛl ˈɒf/
1
In a spelling bee, of two or more participants, to spell words one after the other until a champion is determined. Usually refers to a series of rounds of spelling in which no spellers are eliminated.
2
Broadly To participate in a spelling bee.