spell

[spel]

spell Definition

• 1. to form a word or words with the letters in the correct order
• 2. a period of time during which someone does a particular job or activity
• 3. a short period of bad luck or difficulty

Using spell: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spell" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  Can you spell your name for me, please?

• Example

  I'll spell you while you take a break.

• Example

  She's had a bad spell of flu.

• Example

  He's been on a winning spell lately.

• Example

  I'm having trouble with this word. Can you help me spell it?

spell Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for spell

• write
• compose
• stint
• shift
• turn
• bout
• run
• patch
• streak
• formulate

Phrases with spell

• spelling bee

  a competition in which contestants are asked to spell a broad selection of words, usually with a varying degree of difficulty

  Example

  She won the school spelling bee and will compete in the regional competition next month.

• spell out

  to explain something in a clear and detailed way

  Example

  Could you spell out exactly what you mean by that?

• bad spell

  a period of time when things go wrong or are difficult

  Example

  I've had a bad spell at work recently.

Origins of spell

from Old English 'spellian', meaning 'to tell, talk'

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Summary: spell in Brief

The term 'spell' [spel] can be used as a verb to mean forming words correctly, as in 'Can you spell your name for me, please?' It can also refer to a period of time spent doing a particular activity, as in 'I'll spell you while you take a break.' Additionally, 'spell' can denote a short period of bad luck or difficulty, as in 'She's had a bad spell of flu.'