Spell Definition & Meaning

spell
noun
  1. a psychological state induced by (or as if induced by) a magical incantation
  2. a time for working (after which you will be relieved by someone else); "it's my go"; "a spell of work"
  3. a period of indeterminate length (usually short) marked by some action or condition; "he was here for a little while"; "I need to rest for a piece"; "a spell of good weather"; "a patch of bad weather"
  4. a verbal formula believed to have magical force; "he whispered a spell as he moved his hands"; "inscribed around its base is a charm in Balinese"
verb
  1. orally recite the letters of or give the spelling of; "How do you spell this word?" "We had to spell out our names for the police officer"
  2. indicate or signify; "I'm afraid this spells trouble!"
  3. write or name the letters that comprise the conventionally accepted form of (a word or part of a word); "He spelled the word wrong in this letter"
  4. relieve (someone) from work by taking a turn; "She spelled her husband at the wheel"
  5. place under a spell
  6. take turns working; "the workers spell every four hours"

"Spell" in song lyrics

See how spell is used in real songs:

  • "Bumpin' this hell toward the rail like a sorcerer's spell"
    7L & Esoteric — Precision
  • "You're still gonna get the Speak n Spell"
    Aceyalone — Anywhere You Go
  • "dispell this spell"
    Aceyalone — The Greatest Show on Earth

Usage tips for "spell"

Understanding the precise definition of a word helps you use it with confidence. When using "spell" in your writing, consider whether you need the word itself or one of its synonyms — subtle differences in meaning can change the tone of a sentence. If you're writing poetry or song lyrics, check the rhymes for spell to find words that pair well.

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