spelling

noun

spell·​ing ˈspe-liŋ 

1

: the forming of words from letters according to accepted usage : orthography

2

a

: a sequence of letters composing a word

b

: the way in which a word is spelled

Examples of spelling in a Sentence

The American spelling is “color” while the British spelling is “colour.”

The words “made” and “maid” sound alike but have different spellings.

Recent Examples on the Web

The series brings together celebrities, comedians, athletes and digital creators in high-pressure spelling challenges. — Mya Copeland, Variety, 23 July 2026

England’s Media Centre (their spelling) was in a space used by the District Maintenance Staff for a month. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 22 July 2026

This story has been edited to correct the spelling of Janco Smits's name. — ABC News, 21 July 2026

Last week, the family was traveling to Montreal but was initially unable to board their flight because one of his daughters had a problem with the spelling of her name on her ticket. — Clara Harter, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spelling

• finger spelling
• reformed spelling
• spelling bee
• spelling pronunciation

Rhymes for spelling

• belling
• celling
• dwelling
• fehling
• felling
• gelling
• pelling
• quelling
• selling
• shelling
• smelling
• swelling

Kids Definition

spelling

noun

spell·​ing

ˈspel-iŋ

: the forming of words from letters

also : the letters composing a word