the buzz log

When a name reaches critical mass in Search, the rules of spelling take wing and fly out the window. This phenomenon manifests itself in transposed letters, odd homophones, and other off-the-wall variations. We've seen the heightened margin of error-plagued searches on everyone from Britney Spears to Nostradamus. "American Idol" contestant and digital camera aficionado Antonella Barba is just the latest victim of massive spelling slipups.

Her first name has been a struggle, give or take an "l." People have tried Antonelli (the masculine form?), Atonell, Anatella, Antella, and Antinella. We can't decide which is our favorite—Antonia, with its shades of Willa Cather—or the Royal-flavored "american idol antoinette."

"Barba" has also tripped up many an eager searcher. The most common—and understandable—misspelling has been "Barbara" or "Barbra." Other surname incarnations have been more evocative than the scandal itself.

How do you (mis)spell Barba? Let us count the ways...

• Antonella Barb
• Antonella Barbera
• Antonella Barbo
• Antonella Barber
• Antonella Babra
• American Idol Barbie
• Antonella Bar
• Antonella Barbaro