Laxi Dictionary

English Dictionary

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Definition spell in British English

spell verb

verb
/spel/
1

to know the letters of a word in the correct order

Example

Can you spell the word 'beautiful'?

Synonyms and related words
calligraphy crabbed cursive
1.1

to say or write the letters of a word in the correct order

Example

You've spelt my name wrong.

Synonyms and related words
calligraphy crabbed cursive
1.2

to have a good knowledge of the way that words are written

Example

Her writing is neat, but she can't spell.

Synonyms and related words
calligraphy crabbed cursive
1.3

if a series of letters spells a word, they make that word. This is usually used by children and teachers

Example

L-O-V-E spells 'love'.

Synonyms and related words
calligraphy crabbed cursive
2

to show that something is going to happen, usually something bad

Example

The news spelled the death of the US car industry.

Example

There's a determined look about him which can only spell trouble for his rivals.

Synonyms and related words
signify stand for symbolize
3

to do someone's work for a short time, so that they can rest

Example

I'd better go spell Mitch for a couple of hours.

Synonyms and related words
replace change renew
Definition spell in British English