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spell out
verb
spelled out; spelling out; spells out
1
: to make plain
spelled out the orders in detail
2
: to write or print in letters and in full
numbers are to be spelled out
Synonyms
Examples of spell out in a Sentence
the dating applicant spelled out exactly what she wanted in a man
Recent Examples on the Web
The blue and green bracelet, which is understood to have been made by Princess Charlotte ahead of her dad's trip, features the affectionate name William’s three children, Prince George, 11, Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6, call him spelled out in black and white beads.
—Kirsty Hatcher, People.com, 5 Nov. 2024
Allowing pretty much anyone over 21 to buy pot was estimated to generate up to $300 million each year, mostly to fund a list of causes spelled out in the proposition.
—Joanna Allhands, The Arizona Republic, 31 Oct. 2024
Dasha exclaimed, admiring her new tequila keepsake, which had her name spelled out in pink jewels.
—Matt Tighe, Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2024
They are being replaced by a document known as a grant in aid, where the college is supposed to spell out in specific terms scholarship money to be received and eventually name, image and likeness funds to be dispersed whenever the NCAA and others settle their legal issues.
—Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 30 Oct. 2024
See all Example Sentences for spell out
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Word History
First Known Use
1940, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Dictionary Entries Near spell out
Cite this Entry
“Spell out.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spell%20out. Accessed 13 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
spell out
verb1
: to make very plain
our duties were spelled out
2
: to write or print in letters and in full
More from Merriam-Webster on spell out
Nglish: Translation of spell out for Spanish Speakers
Britannica English: Translation of spell out for Arabic Speakers
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