as in to explain
to make plain or understandable
the dating applicant spelled out exactly what she wanted in a man
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of spell out
After a day of legal maneuvers and thunderstorms, workers began the process in the early morning hours of removing the letters spelling out the Republican president’s name from the facade of the iconic performing arts venue.
—
Steven Sloan,
Fortune,
13 June 2026
For people earning more than their state’s limit for Medicare coverage (100-138% of the FPL) but less than 400% of the FPL, income caps spelled out in premium tax credit rules are also rising slightly.
—
Katharina Buchholz,
Forbes.com,
12 June 2026
Each piece spells out a message—happiness, beauty, and magnificence—in the ancient pictorial writing.
—
Paige Reddinger,
Robb Report,
12 June 2026
The medical examiner’s role, spelled out in Florida statute, requires the dead be identified, injuries and wounds be documented and cause and manner of death be determined.
—
Stephen Hudak,
The Orlando Sentinel,
11 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for spell out
Steven Sloan,
Fortune,
13 June 2026
For people earning more than their state’s limit for Medicare coverage (100-138% of the FPL) but less than 400% of the FPL, income caps spelled out in premium tax credit rules are also rising slightly.
—
Katharina Buchholz,
Forbes.com,
12 June 2026
Each piece spells out a message—happiness, beauty, and magnificence—in the ancient pictorial writing.
—
Paige Reddinger,
Robb Report,
12 June 2026
The medical examiner’s role, spelled out in Florida statute, requires the dead be identified, injuries and wounds be documented and cause and manner of death be determined.
—
Stephen Hudak,
The Orlando Sentinel,
11 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for spell out
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spell out
Verb
-
Watching the hearing via Zoom from a prison holding room, Powell wiped his eyes and sighed heavily as Cribbs once again recited the facts of the case before Judge Rachelle Carnesale, explaining when Walton was fatally shot.
-
When the Dodgers played here last month, a fan posted a picture of the menu board and explained what FTD stood for.
Verb
-
During the preference sheet meeting, the major difference in Kayley and Genevieve’s attitudes is perfectly illustrated.
-
The scale of the fund, and the involvement of multiple international partners, illustrates Abu Dhabi’s ambition to use AI to help diversify its economy, and its credibility as an investor.
Verb
-
In addition to clarifying one claim, NYT also agreed to voluntarily dismiss two claims of contributory copyright infringement and trademark dilution against all defendants.
-
Rich Bornstein, founder of Bornstein Media, helps leaders clarify their story before the camera turns on.
Verb
-
Ukraine’s ability to strike military production facilities, fuel depots, ammunition storage sites and critical infrastructure hundreds of miles from the front lines has demonstrated a remarkable evolution in its strategic capabilities.
-
To earn belief, leaders must protect early adopters, welcome critical feedback, and demonstrate value through real-world examples.
Cite this Entry
“Spell out.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spell%20out. Accessed 27 Jun. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
