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

There have been changes in her life since that other spelling bee. —David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 June 2024

This is reflected in that alternative spelling of the name of the tree. —Jay Nordlinger, National Review, 3 June 2024

According to Soma's biography, this year's spelling bee marks his second-ever spell-off. —Charlotte Phillipp, Peoplemag, 31 May 2024

This was Soma’s third year in the national spelling bee. —Ayana Archie, NPR, 31 May 2024

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

Kids Definition

spelling

noun

spell·​ing

ˈspel-iŋ

: the forming of words from letters

also : the letters composing a word