What does spellcheck mean?
Spellcheck refers both to the process of examining written text for incorrectly spelled words and to the act of identifying those mistakes. It is commonly used for automated tools as well as for a person’s careful review, as in "run a spellcheck" or "spellcheck your essay." The term focuses primarily on orthography rather than every aspect of writing: a spellcheck may identify a misspelling without judging grammar, punctuation, tone, factual accuracy, or whether a correctly spelled word fits the context. In everyday and professional use, it is often part of the broader process of proofreading. The closed compound spelling is standard, although "spell check" is also widely accepted and may sound more natural when used as a verb. The word is useful because spelling errors can distract readers and undermine the clarity and credibility of a text, while systematic checking makes written communication more polished and reliable.
An examination of a word or passage for spelling errors.
"The article went through a final spellcheck before publication."
Often used with "run," "perform," or "do," and frequently refers to an automated feature.
To check the spelling of a word or passage and identify possible errors.
"She spellchecked the lesson before sending it to the students."
The related form "spell check" is also common as a verb.
Used for separate spelling checks, especially when referring to repeated or individual automated checks.
"The program runs several spellchecks before the document is accepted."
A spellcheck can catch a misspelled word, but it cannot always tell whether the correctly spelled word is the right word for the sentence.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of spellcheck
The word combines spell, meaning to write or form the letters of a word, with check, meaning to inspect or verify. Its underlying components are long-established English words: spell derives from an Old English word related to telling, narrating, or speaking, while check entered English from Old French chequer, associated with checking or verifying. The compound spelling reflects the modern practice of using computers or careful proofreading to verify the spelling of written language.
Related word forms
How spellcheck is actually used
Spellcheck is standard in general and technical English. The closely related form "spell check" is also common, particularly as a verb or when the two words are written separately. In British English, "proofreading" may sometimes be used more broadly than spellchecking, although it normally includes more than checking spelling alone.
Easily confused with spellcheck
A spellcheck focuses mainly on spelling, whereas proofreading can also address grammar, punctuation, clarity, and formatting.
Spellcheck is the standard closed compound; spell check is also widely accepted, especially as a verb or when the words are separated for emphasis.