Sense group 1 is now most often found with words bearing a sense of ability, such as can tell or one way to tell. For many of the senses of tell, the word show would have a contrasting meaning, and in other senses, it would have a nearly identical meaning. The meaning of TELL is to relate in detail : narrate. How to use tell in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Tell. Define tell. tell synonyms, tell pronunciation, tell translation, English dictionary definition of tell. v. told , tell·ing , tells v. tr. 1. a. To communicate by speech or writing; express with words: She told him that the store was closed. Tell me the truth. To tell is to describe or announce something, either by speaking or writing. If you're going to be late to a movie, you should tell your friends so they can save you a seat. This disambiguation page lists articles associated with the title Tell. If an internal link incorrectly led you here, you may wish to change the link to point directly to the intended article. to give an account or report: Tell me about your trip. to give evidence or be an indication: The ruined temples told of an ancient culture, long since passed from existence. TELL definition: 1. to say something to someone, often giving them information or instructions: 2. to say…. Learn more. Some common synonyms of tell are betray, disclose, divulge, and reveal. While all these words mean to make known what has been or should be concealed, tell implies an imparting of necessary or useful information. To tell is to describe or announce something, either by speaking or writing. If you're going to be late to a movie, you should tell your friends so they can save you a seat. TELL meaning: 1. to say something to someone, often giving them information or instructions: 2. to say…. Learn more.