Difference between spelled and spelt

This is part of the difference between series.

I’ve heard some people confusing the words spelled and spelt. Here’s the difference between the two.

Spelled

Spelled is the past tense of to spell.

  • He spelled the word wrong in his essay.
  • Travelled is spelled with two L’s in Canada.

Spelt

Spelt, on the other hand, refers to a type of grain that has been grown in parts of Europe for over 7,000 years.

  • This multigrain bread contains spelt flour.

Now, keep in mind that this difference is primarily American (and pretty much the same for Canadians, too). Outside the US, spelt is an alternate spelling of spelled, a past tense form of to spell. So, if you’re in the US (or Canada), stick with spelt for the grain only.

Which words do you confuse? Let me know in the comments below.

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By Kim Siever

I am a copywriter and copyeditor. I blog on writing and social media tips mostly, but I sometimes throw in my thoughts about running a small business. Follow me on Twitter at @hotpepper.