Definition of the word spell

The word "spell" has a rich history dating back to Old English. The verb "spell" originally meant "to arrange in order" or "to set out in succession". This sense of the word is still used today, as in "to spell out a word" or "to spell out a plan". Over time, the word "spell" took on a magical connotation, referring to a sequence of words or sounds used to charm, bewitch, or cast a spell. This sense of the word likely originated from the idea that certain combinations of words or sounds had mystical or magical properties. Today, the word "spell" has multiple meanings, including both the original sense of arranging in order and the magical sense of using words or sounds to achieve a desired effect.