Spilt

/spɪlt/ verb

Definition

Past tense of spill; to accidentally pour or cause liquid to flow out of its container.

Etymology

From Old English 'spillan' meaning to destroy or waste. The sense of pouring out liquid developed by the 1300s, and 'spilt' became an alternate past tense alongside 'spilled'.

Kelly Says

English can't decide between 'spilled' and 'spilt'—Americans prefer 'spilled' while British speakers like 'spilt,' and both are correct, which is why English pronunciation is impossible to learn consistently.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.