spells out

verb

present tense third-person singular of spell out
as in explains
to make plain or understandable the dating applicant spelled out exactly what she wanted in a man

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 spells out Abraham says the episode is slightly better than before, but repeatedly spells out simple beats much to her frustration. — Hannah Abraham, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026 There are special allowances for vehicles at least 100 years old, believe it or not, but as this AutoWeek explainer from 2024 spells out, good luck trying to ship a ’60s Mustang across the world to drive it on their streets. — Adam Ismail, The Drive, 5 Aug. 2026 Confirm which pests are covered, what the cancellation terms are, and whether the service agreement spells out what’s included and excluded. — Jay Sparks, USA Today, 15 July 2026 As the name spells out, CeraViva Edible Melting Candles are … well …. — Rod Stafford Hagwood, Sun Sentinel, 9 July 2026 The deal also spells out that any footage generated by AI will be under a director’s control. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 26 June 2026 The agreement says the US will issue waivers allowing Iran to export oil and spells out provisions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz, among other measures. — Alexandra Banner, CNN Money, 18 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 remainder of the letter spells out multiple allegations, which Tufty contests. — Eric Adler june 4, Kansas City Star, 4 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for spells out
  1. explains
  2. illustrates
  3. clarifies
  4. demonstrates
Verb
  • After speaking to multiple sources familiar with the process — all of whom remain anonymous to protect relationships — The Athletic explains the lay of the land.
    — James McNicholas, New York Times, 12 Aug. 2026
  • Kash explains that turmeric contains a specific type of polyphenol called curcumin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties (and is what gives the spice its bright yellow color).
    — Marie Bladt, Vogue, 11 Aug. 2026
Definition of explains
Verb
  • This illustrates how far the Eagles have come at the position under Fangio.
    — Zach Berman, New York Times, 16 Aug. 2026
  • The story of sardines feeding Japan’s war machine illustrates the convergence of technology, environment and imperialism.
    — Pei-Hsu Lin, The Conversation, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of illustrates
Verb
  • Treating broadband as a social determinant of health clarifies both the urgency and the opportunity.
    — Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 12 Aug. 2026
  • The proposal, approved during a rare summer special session, would place before voters in November a constitutional amendment that clarifies how Maryland‘s congressional districts are drawn.
    — Claire Carter, The Washington Examiner, 5 Aug. 2026
Definition of clarifies
Verb
  • The attempt to recruit Vinicius Jr demonstrates the intention.
    — Kaya Kaynak, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • As Amziah demonstrates during this lesson, the queen is the center of the universe and without her, the colony would collapse.
    — Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of demonstrates

Browse Nearby Words

spells
spells out
spence
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Spells out.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/spells%20out. Accessed 17 Aug. 2026.

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