spelling

noun

spell·​ing ˈspe-liŋ How to pronounce spelling (audio)
1
: the forming of words from letters according to accepted usage : orthography
2
a
: a sequence of letters composing a word
b
: the way in which a word is spelled

Examples of spelling in a Sentence

The American spelling is “color” while the British spelling is “colour.” The words “made” and “maid” sound alike but have different spellings.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
There’s a reason spelling bees are only common in English-speaking countries: English spelling is absurd. Gabe Henry, Time, 15 Apr. 2025 This story has been updated with the correct spelling of Mayor Kevin McCarty’s name. Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 7 Apr. 2025 Apparently, his son Jabari fell from an A+ to an A in spelling, so Darnell is living up to his promise of beating Gregory’s ass if Jabari’s grades ever slipped. Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 3 Apr. 2025 And if someone uses a correct variant spelling, kudos to them. Anna Holmes, New York Times, 22 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for spelling

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of spelling was in the 15th century

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Cite this Entry

“Spelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spelling. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

spelling

noun
spell·​ing
ˈspel-iŋ
: the forming of words from letters
also : the letters composing a word

More from Merriam-Webster on spelling

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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