spell out

verb

spelled out; spelling out; spells out
Synonyms of spell outnext

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

Examples of spell out in a Sentence

the dating applicant spelled out exactly what she wanted in a man
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
These powers spelled out in the motion brought by Supervisors Lindsey Horvath and Hilda Solis will be incorporated into an ordinance that will come back to the board in 30 days for a vote. Steve Scauzillo, Daily News, 14 Jan. 2026 The governor, who has emerged as a likely candidate for the 2028 presidential race, spent much of his hour-long speech spelling out the triumphs of his administration and extolling the values of California. Kate Wolffe, Sacbee.com, 9 Jan. 2026 Others have updated their policies to spell out what spiritual advisers are allowed to do. Katie Moore, Kansas City Star, 8 Jan. 2026 Her wardrobe functioned as parallel messaging to her husband's politics, subtly reinforcing sustainability, attention to craft, and a respect for small, independent designers without needing to be spelled out. Daisy Maldonado, InStyle, 5 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spell out

Word History

First Known Use

1940, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spell out was in 1940

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spell out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spell%20out. Accessed 21 Jan. 2026.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on spell out

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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