spelder

verb

spel·​der
ˈspeldər
-ed/-ing/-s

transitive verb

chiefly Scottish : split

intransitive verb

chiefly Scottish : stretch, sprawl

Word History

Etymology

obsolete English speld to split open, spread open (from Middle English spelden, probably alteration—influenced by spelde splinter—of spalden to split, spread open, from Middle Low German, from Old High German spaltan to split) + English -er (as in batter)

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near spelder

Cite this Entry

“Spelder.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spelder. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!