Definition & Meaning of "spell"in English

to spell

VERB

to write or say the letters that form a word one by one in the right order

Transitive: to spell a word

Examples

He struggles to spell the word " restaurant " correctly.

I often use a dictionary to help me spell difficult words.

1.1

to be the letters being put together in the correct order form a particular word

Transitive: to spell a word

Examples

The letters " c-a-t " spell the word " cat. "

The sequence of letters " h-o-u-s-e " spells the word " house. "

to indicate or signify something, often in a clear or explicit way

Transitive: to spell a situation or sentiment

Examples

His sudden silence spelled trouble for the project.

The dark clouds gathering overhead spelled an imminent storm.

to temporarily take over or substitute for another person's duties or responsibilities

Transitive: to spell sb

Examples

Sarah 's assistant will spell her during her lunch break so she can take a rest.

I need someone to spell me at the reception desk while I take a quick break.

to captivate or enchant someone or something through magical or compelling means

Transitive: to spell sb

Examples

Her captivating smile had the power to spell anyone who gazed upon her, leaving them mesmerized by her beauty.

The magician 's tricks and illusions were so skillful that they seemed to spell the entire audience.

Spell

NOUN

a mental or emotional state as if caused by magic

Examples

She seemed caught in a spell of fear.

The music cast a spell over the audience.

a period of work, duty, or activity after which one is relieved or replaced

Examples

He worked a long spell in the kitchen before taking a break.

Nurses take turns, each covering a spell of night duty.

a short period of time of something particular

Examples

After a brief spell of rain, the sun came out again.

She experienced a dizzy spell and had to sit down.

a set of words believed to have magical power

What is a "spell"?

A spell is a set of words, actions, or rituals used to summon supernatural forces or achieve a specific magical effect. Spells can cause changes in the physical world, influence events, or alter a person's emotions or state. They are often performed using specific phrases, gestures, or ingredients and can vary from simple charms to complex enchantments. The success of a spell usually depends on the skill of the person performing it and how accurately they carry out the spell.

Examples

The witch recited a spell to turn the frog into a prince.

Ancient texts describe spells for healing or protection.

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