spelling

noun

spell·​ing ˈspe-liŋ 

1

: the forming of words from letters according to accepted usage : orthography

2

a

: a sequence of letters composing a word

b

: the way in which a word is spelled

Examples of spelling in a Sentence

The American spelling is “color” while the British spelling is “colour.”

The words “made” and “maid” sound alike but have different spellings.

Recent Examples on the Web

Hanukkah is the spelling used by the Associated Press Stylebook, though Chanukah is a common alternative. —Chris Sims, The Indianapolis Star, 13 Dec. 2024

This marks the first time a single spelling of Muhammad has topped the list without combining variations or alternate spellings. —Jason Fields, Newsweek, 5 Dec. 2024

Editor’s note: This article has been updated to correct the spelling of James Blumstein, who is a professor at the Vanderbilt University Law School. —Henry Gass, The Christian Science Monitor, 2 Dec. 2024

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect the correct spelling of Banco BPM. —Matt Clinch, CNBC, 25 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing spelling

• finger spelling
• reformed spelling
• spelling bee
• spelling pronunciation

Kids Definition

spelling

noun

spell·​ing

ˈspel-iŋ

: the forming of words from letters

also : the letters composing a word