spell Definition

spell¹
verb spelt, spelled, spelling

1. To write or name (the constituent letters of a word or words) in their correct order.
2. Said of letters: to form (a word) when written in sequence.

Example: How do you spell it? That's easy ― I T spells ‘it'
3. To indicate something clearly.

Example: His angry expression spelt trouble
Thesaurus: signal, indicate, suggest, imply, mean, presage, portend, herald, augur, prefigure.

Derivative: spellable
adj

Derivative: speller
noun

Derivative: spelling

See separate entry.

Etymology: 13c: from French espeller, from German spellen and related to gospel.

Phrasal Verb: spell something out

To read, write or speak (the constituent letters of a word) one by one.To explain something clearly and in detail.
Example: The instructions spell out exactly how it's done

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spell²
noun

1. A set of words which, especially when spoken, is believed to have magical power, often of an evil nature.

Example: a magic spell
2. Any strong attracting influence; a fascination.

Example: found the spell of her personality incredibly powerful

Idiom: cast a spell on someone (cast a spell upon someone)

To direct the words of a spell (towards them), especially in the hope that something bad will happen.

Idiom: under a spell

Held by the influence of a spell that has been cast.

Idiom: under one's spell

Captivated by their influence.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon, meaning ‘narrative', from spellian to speak or announce.

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spell³
noun

1. A period or bout of illness, work, weather, etc often of a specified kind.

Example: hope this spell of sunshine continues
Thesaurus: interval, term, period, season, stint, time, stretch.
Form: for a spell (often)
Form: a spell of
(now chiefly Austral, NZ & N Eng)
2. An interval or short break from work.

verb spelled, spelling

1. To replace or relieve someone at work.
intr
2. To take an interval or short break from work.

Etymology: Anglo-Saxon spelian to act for another.