Definitions

spell out

VERB

clarify, explain

Synonyms

STRONGEST

define describe expound illustrate justify point out

WEAK

break down brief clear up clue in decipher decode diagram draw a map fill someone in get across go into detail interpret make plain put across put in plain English teach tell throw light upon translate unfold unravel untangle

Antonyms

STRONGEST

confuse

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Broadly speaking, dementia directives spell out a person’s wishes for care at different stages of the disease.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 3, 2026

Parliamentary rules spell out the process followed for impeachment.

From BBC • Jun. 5, 2026

Germany, which has faced high political and legal hurdles to take part in overseas military ventures since World War II, could spell out its commitment as early as Thursday, according to the official.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

She didn’t spell out what this all meant, but it seemed to imply that Erika was raised to be a Project Looking Glass agent assigned to handle Charlie.

From Slate • Feb. 27, 2026

"We spell out our message, wait twenty minutes, and then take a picture. Watney's back in the Hab by then."

From "The Martian" by Andy Weir

spell out

Example Sentences

Related Words