noun

spelling

The letters used to write a word, or arranging them correctly.

She checks the spelling of each word before submitting her essay.

Etymology

The verb developed from telling or reciting into naming a word's letters. Spelling names that arrangement or the act of producing it.

More examples

  • The spelling of "knife" includes a silent k.
  • Good spelling makes your writing easier to read.
  • Both spellings of the name appear in old records.

Forms

spelling · spellings

spell verb — To arrange letters to form a word.

Similar words

orthography
Usually refers to a language's established spelling system and conventions.