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

That protocol, however, has not been spelled out in the NCAA’s Instant Replay Case Book. — Ralph D. Russo, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026

West Virginia's social studies standards require instruction about 9/11 and its aftermath in sixth grade, eighth grade and high school, with particulars spelled out at each level. — ABC News, 8 Sep. 2026

Before your next accent-wall paint job or floating shelf, send an email (not a text) spelling out the change, the reversal plan and who pays for restoration. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 8 Sep. 2026

What detracts from the film is the clumsily emphatic foreshadowing of a dramatic plot turn, which is pretty much spelled out by an alarm company technician who sells Miguel on the wisdom of upgrading to a next-level home security system. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 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