Entry Word: tell

Function: verb

Meaning: 1 to give an oral or written account of in some detail <told the story of how they had met>

Synonyms describe, narrate, recite, recount, rehearse, relate, report

Related Words deliver, give, state, utter, voice; detail, enumerate, itemize, particularize; disclose, divulge, reveal; delineate, depict, express, render, sketch

2 to express (a thought or emotion) in words <just tell us what is in your heart> — see say 1
3 to find the sum of (a collection of things) by noting each one as it is being added <who can tell the number of grains of sand in the world?> — see count 1
4 to give information (as to the authorities) about anotherʼs improper or unlawful activities <if you do that, I'll tell on you to Grandma> — see squeal 1
5 to give information to <tell me, when did you begin playing the violin?> — see enlighten 1
6 to issue orders to (someone) by right of authority <told us to sit still and wait> — see command 1
7 to make known (as information previously kept secret) <I won't tell your secret to anyone> — see reveal 1