v.tr. (past and past part. spelt or spelled)
1 (also absol.) write or name the letters that form (a word etc.) in correct sequence (spell 'exaggerate'; cannot spell properly).
2 a (of letters) make up or form (a word etc.). b (of circumstances, a scheme, etc.) result in; involve (spell ruin).
Phrases and idioms:
spell out (or over)
1 make out (words, writing, etc.) letter by letter.
2 explain in detail (spelled out what the change would mean).
Derivatives:
spellable adj.
Etymology: ME f. OF espel(l)er, f. Frank. (as SPELL(2))
2.
n.
1 a form of words used as a magical charm or incantation.
2 an attraction or fascination exercised by a person, activity, quality, etc.
Phrases and idioms:
under a spell mastered by or as if by a spell.
Etymology: OE spel(l) f. Gmc
3.
n. & v.
—n.
1 a short or fairly short period (a cold spell in April).
2 a turn of work (did a spell of woodwork).
3 Austral. a period of rest from work.
—v.
1 tr. a relieve or take the place of (a person) in work etc. b allow to rest briefly.
2 intr. Austral. take a brief rest.
Etymology: earlier as verb: later form of dial. spele take place of f. OE spelian, of unkn. orig.
4.
n. a splinter of wood etc.
Etymology: perh. f. obs. speld
Useful english dictionary. 2012.