SPELL OUT Synonyms: 37 Similar and Opposite Words

spell out

verb

Definition of spell out

as in to explain

to make plain or understandable the dating applicant spelled out exactly what she wanted in a man

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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 Swift’s fans figured out Tuesday that the third letter of each word/term — when rearranged — spelled out Encore. — Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 23 Sep. 2026 But the doc often relies on how well known these stories are to get out of JAŸ spelling out their grim particulars. — Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2026 His 122-page indictment, which named Badio and the Colombians among others, spelled out a power grab that also involved people in the president’s circle. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 20 Sep. 2026 Also pictured was a custom chain with Bronze’s name spelled out in diamonds. — Emy Lacroix, PEOPLE, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for spell out

Recent Examples of Synonyms for spell out

Verb

By comparison, strong fluid flows elongated the cells and caused DNA damage, a crucial control detail that explains why past experiments might have yielded misleading results.

— Stefanie Waldek, Space.com, 29 Sep. 2026
Rowe explained that someone buying a pair of running shoes often sends them back after wearing it for a day to try on the fit.

— Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 28 Sep. 2026

Definition of explain

Verb

The boomer’s reckoning Voeste grew up in Dortmund, the coal-and-steel city whose fate has long illustrated the dangers of clinging to an industrial past after its economics have changed.

— Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2026
This is well illustrated at Dia Beacon, where the sculpture Relatum (formerly System), 1969, sits near two paintings both titled With Winds, 1991.

— Barry Schwabsky, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2026

Definition of illustrate

Verb

Now Christian clarified that, in addition to being just beyond Staten Island, this island was in the Caribbean.

— Anand Giridharadas, New Yorker, 26 Sep. 2026
Three executives developed a session charter and agenda, clarified the purpose and prepared key speaking points.

— Angela Cusack, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026

Definition of clarify

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spelling out

spell out

spells

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Style

“Spell out.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spell%20out. Accessed 4 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of spell out

verb

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