1 C1 neutral
to compete by spelling words aloud in turn
"The finalists spelled off for nearly an hour before a winner was chosen."
inseparable
spell off
C1 neutral intransitive intransitive
to spell words aloud one after another, especially in a competition
In plain English
to take turns spelling words out loud
What does "spell off" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
to spell in turns or in sequence
Actually means
to take turns spelling words out loud
Usage tip
Mostly used in American English in the context of spelling bees or old-fashioned classroom drills. It is quite uncommon in general conversation.
Words that pair with "spell off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
contestants students class competition words spelling bee
How to conjugate "spell off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
spell off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
spells off
he/she/it
Past simple
spelled off
yesterday
Past participle
spelled off
have + pp
-ing form
spelling off
continuous
Hear "spell off" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "spell off" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "spell off"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
compete in spelling spell aloud in turn
Keep exploring
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