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

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.
The letter spells out five recommendations to improve America’s weather forecasting infrastructure, such as collecting far more observations and modernizing alert systems. Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 21 July 2025 The agreement spells out the rules of engagement during the two-year-long period between council approval and the close of escrow, and lays the foundation for the parties to enter into the actual ground lease once escrow closes. Jennifer Van Grove, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 July 2025 The Flock transparency portal linked to in the city’s website spells out what is detected (license plates, vehicles) and what isn’t (facial recognition, people, gender, race). Mary Divine, Twin Cities, 19 July 2025 The agreement also spells out that the district will complete a one-hour training and that the board will review its policies on open meetings and public comment, both led by legal counsel not involved in the advice rendered June 2. Alec Johnson, jsonline.com, 17 July 2025 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 27 Jul. 2025.

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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