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

Synonyms of spell out

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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 Clarity Act would spell out a regulatory framework for digital commodities. — Ananya Chetia, CNBC, 25 Aug. 2026 Election law, for example, spells out the circumstances under which ballots can be examined, even during a criminal prosecution. — Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 25 Aug. 2026 The listing should spell out the qualifications that actually matter for the role, such as required licenses, education, experience or technical skills. — Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 24 Aug. 2026 Carlson also spells out a distinction the 90-10 case rather takes for granted. — Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 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

Rhymes for spell out

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Browse Nearby Words

Spellman
spell out
spell trouble
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Cite this Entry

“Spell out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spell%20out. Accessed 31 Aug. 2026.

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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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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