How Do You Spell SEAL?

Pronunciation: [sˈiːl] (IPA)

The word "seal" is a tricky word to spell because it contains the vowel sounds /i:/ and /ɛ/ in the same syllable. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is spelled /siːl/. The first sound, /i:/, is a long vowel sound made by positioning the tongue high and forward in the mouth. The second sound, /ɛ/, is a mid-front vowel sound made by positioning the tongue halfway between open and closed, slightly forward in the mouth. Remembering these sounds can help you spell "seal" correctly every time!

SEAL Meaning and Definition

  1. A seal can refer to multiple definitions depending on the context. In its broadest sense, a seal is a device or method used for closing, fastening, or securing something. It can be a material or mechanism, typically made of rubber, which is pressed onto a surface to prevent the entry or escape of air, liquid, or gas, ensuring a tight closure. For instance, a rubber seal can be found in the lid of a jar to keep its contents fresh or in a door or window to provide insulation.

    In a more specific sense, a seal can also refer to a distinctive emblem, symbol, or mark used to authenticate or certify something. This can be achieved through a wax or engraved impression on a document, envelope, or certificate, officially indicating its genuineness or authorship. For example, a royal seal represents the authority or approval of a monarch.

    Moreover, a seal is a semiaquatic, marine mammal characterized by its streamlined body, flippers, and ability to swim gracefully underwater. These marine animals, often found in cold waters, possess a thick layer of blubber to keep them warm. Seals are known to have a variety of species, including fur seals, sea lions, and an assortment of true seals, such as the harbor or gray seal.

    In summary, a seal can represent a closure or fastening device, an emblem of authentication, or a marine mammal characterized by its flippers and streamlined body.

  2. • A marine amphibious animal of various species, chiefly inhabiting the sea-coasts of the higher latitudes, much sought after for its skin and oil; the sea-calf; the sea-dog.
    • An engraved or inscribed piece of metal; a precious stone, a pebble, or a piece of metal, on which some image or device is engraved, used for impressing the wax that closes a letter, or that which is attached to a deed or other parchment or writing; that which ratifies or confirms; an act of confirmation; that which shuts or makes fast.
    • To fasten with; to set or affix a seal to; to ratify; to make fast; to authenticate with a stamp; to enclose, hide, or conceal; to imprint on the mind.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for SEAL *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for SEAL

Etymology of SEAL

The word "seal" has multiple origins and meanings, so its etymology differs based on context. Here are two common usages and their etymologies:

1. "Seal" as a marine mammal:

The word "seal" in reference to the marine mammal comes from the Old English word "seolh", which is also found in other Germanic languages like Old Norse "selr" and Middle Dutch "seel". These words ultimately trace back to Proto-Germanic "*selkhaz". It is believed that this word is ultimately derived from a prehistoric language source, but its exact origin remains uncertain.

2. "Seal" as a method of closure:

The word "seal" meaning a device or method used for closure originates from the Old French word "seel" or "sele", which means "seal, stamp, or mark".

Idioms with the word SEAL

  • seal sth (up) (with sth) The idiom "seal sth (up) (with sth)" means to close or secure something tightly using a material or substance. It often involves applying a sealant or adhesive to ensure that no air, liquid, or other elements can penetrate or escape from the enclosed object or space.
  • under (one's) seal The idiom "under (one's) seal" refers to something that is officially authorized or confirmed by someone's official signature or seal. It indicates that the document or agreement is binding and can be relied upon as authentic or valid.
  • under seal The idiom "under seal" refers to a legal term that signifies a document or agreement has been officially authenticated, finalized, and carries legal significance. It typically involves the affixation of a wax or embossed seal to indicate its authenticity and authority.
  • seal (or stamp) of approval The idiom "seal (or stamp) of approval" refers to an authoritative endorsement or confirmation of something. It originates from the practice of adding a seal or stamp to signify the approval or quality of a document, product, or action. It suggests that a trusted authority or expert has reviewed and given their official endorsement to a particular item or decision, indicating that it meets certain standards or requirements.
  • seal a bargain The idiom "seal a bargain" means to finalize or secure an agreement or deal through official or formal means, such as signing a contract or shaking hands. It implies that all parties involved have reached a mutually satisfactory arrangement and are committed to upholding their respective obligations.
  • set one's seal to The idiom "set one's seal to" means to officially approve, confirm, or endorse something. It refers to the act of placing a personal or official seal on a document, indicating one's agreement or authorization. It signifies the finalization or authentication of an agreement, contract, or decision.
  • break the seal To "break the seal" is an idiom typically used to refer to the moment when someone goes to the restroom after a long period of time, especially during drinking alcohol. It humorously suggests that once someone breaks the seal (urinates for the first time), they will need to use the restroom more frequently afterwards.
  • seal sth off from sm or sth The idiom "seal something off from someone or something" means to close off or block access to something, typically for the purpose of preventing entry or maintaining privacy. It refers to creating a physical barrier or taking measures to isolate or shield something from a particular person, group, or external influence.
  • set the seal on something To "set the seal on something" means to finalize or complete a decision, plan, or action, typically in a way that confirms or guarantees its success or validity. It refers to the act of sealing a document or package with an official stamp or mark to authenticate it. Thus, the idiom implies giving official approval, adding a final touch, or ensuring the completion of something.
  • seal of approval The idiom "seal of approval" refers to a formal or official endorsement or validation of something, usually indicating that it meets a certain standard of quality or approval. It suggests that someone, often an authority figure or expert, has given their positive assessment or endorsement to a product, idea, or action, thereby providing reassurance or confirmation of its quality or suitability.
  • seal someone's fate To "seal someone's fate" means to do something that determines or ensures an inevitable outcome or outcome over which they have no control. It refers to a decisive action or event that will have significant consequences and leave no room for change or reversal.
  • seal sb's/sth's fate The idiom "seal sb's/sth's fate" means to determine or decide someone's or something's future, typically in a negative or final way. It implies that a critical or decisive action or event has taken place, leading to an inevitable outcome or outcome, often one that is unfavorable or irreversible.
  • seal the deal "Seal the deal" is an idiomatic expression that refers to concluding or finalizing an agreement or arrangement, often by completing or securing all necessary details or agreements. It means to ensure that a deal or agreement is official and cannot be changed or undone.
  • seal sb's fate The idiom "seal someone's fate" means to secure or guarantee a particular outcome or destiny, typically an unfavorable or irreversible one, for someone. It suggests that a decision or action taken will ultimately determine the person's fate or future.
  • set/put the seal on sth To "set/put the seal on something" is an idiomatic expression that means to finalize or complete something, often with an official confirmation or approval. It is derived from the practice of officially sealing official documents or letters with a wax seal as a mark of authenticity or completion. Thus, when someone "puts/sets the seal on something," they are giving it their final approval or making it officially finished.
  • seal (one's) fate The idiom "seal one's fate" means to do something that determines or ensures a particular outcome or consequence, typically a negative or irreversible one. It refers to taking a decisive action or making a critical decision that ultimately leads to a specific and often unfavorable outcome.
  • seal sm's fate The idiom "seal someone's fate" means to determine or finalize a person's future, usually in a negative or irreversible manner. It implies that an action or event has put someone in an inevitable or predetermined situation, often leading to negative consequences.
  • put/set the seal on sth The idiom "put/set the seal on something" means to finalize or complete an action or decision, usually in a way that makes it official or binding. It refers to adding a seal or stamp to authenticate and validate something. It implies that the final step has been taken to confirm or guarantee the chosen course of action.
  • put the seal on The idiom "put the seal on" means to finalize or confirm something, often by adding a seal or official stamp to make it official or binding. It implies giving a definitive approval or authentication to a decision, agreement, or action.
  • seal off The idiom "seal off" means to block or close off an area or passage completely, usually as a measure of security or to prevent access. It can also refer to isolating or separating something or someone completely from the outside or surrounding environment.

Similar spelling words for SEAL

Plural form of SEAL is SEALS

Conjugate verb Seal

CONDITIONAL

I would seal
you would seal
he/she/it would seal
we would seal
they would seal

CONDITIONAL CONTINUOUS

I would be sealing
you would be sealing
he/she/it would be sealing
we would be sealing
they would be sealing

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have seal
you would have seal
he/she/it would have seal
we would have seal
they would have seal

CONDITIONAL PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I would have been sealing
you would have been sealing
he/she/it would have been sealing
we would have been sealing
they would have been sealing

FUTURE

I will seal
you will seal
he/she/it will seal
we will seal
they will seal

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be sealing
you will be sealing
he/she/it will be sealing
we will be sealing
they will be sealing

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have sealed
you will have sealed
he/she/it will have sealed
we will have sealed
they will have sealed

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been sealing
you will have been sealing
he/she/it will have been sealing
we will have been sealing
they will have been sealing

IMPERATIVE

you seal
we let´s seal

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to seal

PAST

I sealed
you sealed
he/she/it sealed
we sealed
they sealed

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was sealing
you were sealing
he/she/it was sealing
we were sealing
they were sealing

PAST PARTICIPLE

sealed

PAST PERFECT

I had sealed
you had sealed
he/she/it had sealed
we had sealed
they had sealed

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been sealing
you had been sealing
he/she/it had been sealing
we had been sealing
they had been sealing

PRESENT

I seal
you seal
he/she/it seals
we seal
they seal

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am sealing
you are sealing
he/she/it is sealing
we are sealing
they are sealing

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

sealing

PRESENT PERFECT

I have sealed
you have sealed
he/she/it has sealed
we have sealed
they have sealed

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been sealing
you have been sealing
he/she/it has been sealing
we have been sealing
they have been sealing
I would have sealed
we would have sealed
you would have sealed
he/she/it would have sealed
they would have sealed

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