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spelk

What does spelk mean?

A splinter, usually of wood, usually lodged in your finger and driving you mental. Pure North-East — say it in London and you'll get a blank stare.

"Got a spelk off the bannister, can't get the bugger out."

Origin

Old English 'spelc' — a splinter or small piece of wood. Survived in the North-East long after the rest of England dropped it.

Frequently asked questions

What does "spelk" mean?
It's a splinter — the tiny sliver of wood that gets stuck in your finger.
How do you use "spelk" in a sentence?
"I got a spelk off that fence post and can't get it out."
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Slang definitions: FreeDict original editorial.