spill
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /spɪl/
KK: /spɪl/
intransitive verb
Definition
To flow or fall out of a container, often accidentally.
Example
The juice spilled all over the table when I knocked it over.
Tense Forms
Past: spilled
Past Participle: spilled
Conversation
Did you see how the drink spilled all over the table?
Yeah, it was such a mess!
I thought it would spill when I bumped it accidentally.
Good thing we had some napkins nearby to clean it up!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
overflow
pour
gush
Antonyms
contain
hold
retain
noun
Definition
An amount of liquid that has accidentally flowed out of a container.
Example
There was a spill of juice on the kitchen floor.
Conversation
Did you see the spill on the floor from my drink earlier?
Yeah, I noticed it! I hope it didn't stain anything.
I think it's okay, but I should clean it up just in case.
transitive verb
Definition
To cause a liquid or substance to flow out of a container accidentally or intentionally.
Example
Be careful not to spill your drink on the table.
Tense Forms
Past: spilled
Past Participle: spilled
Conversation
Did you hear what happened at the party last night?
No, what happened?
Someone accidentally spilled punch all over the dance floor!
Root Explanation
The word 'spill' originates from Old English 'spillan', meaning to destroy or to kill. It refers to the act of causing a liquid to flow out of its container, often resulting in a mess or loss.
Memory Tip
Imagine a container that has been 'destroyed' ('spillan') by tipping it over, causing its contents to flow out. This helps you remember that to spill means to let something flow out.
Visually Confused Words
sill
pill
bespill
swill
still
spoil
spiel
spell