(spel) v. spelled or spelt, spell·ing v.t.
1. To pronounce or write the letters of (a word); especially, to do so correctly.
2. To form or be the letters of: C-a-t spells cat; hence, to compose; make up.
3. To read with difficulty; hence, to puzzle out and learn: sometimes with over or out.
4. To signify; mean: Extravagance spells disaster.
—v.i.
5. To form words out of letters, especially correctly. [<OF espeler <Gmc. Akin to SPELL².]

(spel) noun
A formula used as a charm; incantation; charm; hence, fascination.
—v.t. spelled, spell·ing To cast a spell upon; fascinate; bewitch. [OE, story, statement. Akin to SPELL¹.]

(spel) noun
1. A period of time, usually of short length.
2. Colloq. A continuous period characterized by a certain type of weather.
3. Colloq. A short distance.
4. Colloq. A fit of illness, debility, etc.
5. A turn of duty in relief of another.
6. A period of work or employment.
7. Austral. A period of relaxation; rest.
—v.t.
1. To relieve temporarily from some work or duty.
2. Austral. To give a rest to, as a horse.
—v.i.
3. To take a rest. [OE gespelia a substitute, one who spells another]