spelling

1 of 2

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

spelling

2 of 2

present participle of spell entry 1, spell entry 3, spell entry 5

Examples of spelling in a Sentence

Noun

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

Noun

Oxford and Ole Miss rolled out the unwelcome mat early in the week, starting Wednesday with a Lane Kiffen (incorrect spelling intentional) Roast at the Lyric Theater. — Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 20 Sep. 2026

The Origins of Muumuus The proper spelling is muumuu or mu’umu’u. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 18 Sep. 2026

While most are familiar with the name spelled John, this spelling has held its own spot on the chart since 1920. — Sarah Scott, Parents, 17 Sep. 2026

Add to that two of tonight’s competitors sharing a name, albeit with different spellings — Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star Conner Leavitt and comedian and podcaster Connor Wood. — Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 16 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

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