(a) To talk, speak; ~ the wind, talk to the wind, speak in vain; ~ wel in speche, speak eloquently; (b) to say (sth., certain specified words), speak (a word); also, answer (a question); of a written text: say (certain specified words), read; ~ thin preisinge, speak praise of you; (c) to speak or use (a language).

(a) To tell a story orally or in writing; also, explain, tell [quot. c1390 Treat.Mass]; ~ of, tell of (sb. or sth.), write about (sb. or sth.); ~ on, speak of (sb.); heren ~ of, hear tell of (sb. or sth.); (b) to tell (a tale), relate; write (a fit); (c) to describe (sth.), tell; -- also with clause as obj.; also without obj.; heren ~, hear (sth.) told; the certainte what spelleth, what is truly told.

(a) To preach; also, with ind.obj.: preach (to sb.); ~ o (of), preach about (God, sth.); (b) to preach (the gospel, God's word, etc.); (c) to prophesy; speak (a prophecy); (d) to teach (sth.); teach (sb. sth.); give (sb. counsel).

?Ppl. spelling as noun used as surname.