v.tr. (past and past part. spelt or spelled) 1 (also absol.) write or name the letters that form (a word etc.) in correct sequence (spell 'exaggerate'; cannot spell properly). 2 a (of letters) make up or form (a word etc.). b (of circumstances, a scheme, etc.) result in; involve (spell ruin). spell out (or over) 1 make out (words, writing, etc.) letter by letter. 2 explain in detail (spelled out what the change would mean). spellable adj.
[ ME f. OF espel(l)er, f. Frank. (as SPELL(2)) ]