spell

⁵spell

verb

spelled \ˈspeld\spell·ing

Definition of SPELL

transitive verb

1

: to take the place of for a time : relieve <we spell each other every two hours>

2

: rest

intransitive verb

1

: to work in turns

2

chiefly Australian : to rest from an activity for a time

Origin of SPELL

Middle English spelen, from Old English spelian; akin to Old English spala substitute

First Known Use: 1595