spell out

verb

spelled out; spelling out; spells out

transitive verb

1

: to make plain

spelled out the orders in detail

2

: to write or print in letters and in full

numbers are to be spelled out

Synonyms of spell out

• explain
• illustrate
• clarify
• demonstrate

Examples of spell out in a Sentence

the dating applicant spelled out exactly what she wanted in a man

Recent Examples on the Web

Dummy’s third full-length release tasks itself with offering an affirmation of life, spelled out in no uncertain terms through the thwack of DnB drumlines, abrasive distortion, and incisive songwriting. — Sue Park, Pitchfork, 22 Oct. 2026

Within that very document, the contradictions concerning Black people are spelled out in the original language that originalists are so devoted to. — Kamau Bobb october 21, Literary Hub, 21 Oct. 2026

Follow up with a pre-arrival note that spells out arrival logistics and the Wi-Fi password. — Lauren Schuster, Kansas City Star, 19 Oct. 2026

Others reacted to the post using letter emoji to spell out — incorrectly — a racial slur for Black people. — ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for spell out

• about
• bailout
• blackout
• blowout
• breakout
• burnout
• buyout
• checkout
• closeout
• cutout
• devout
• dropout

Kids Definition

spell out

verb

1

: to make very plain

our duties were spelled out

2

: to write or print in letters and in full