Labelled vs. Labeled — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 24, 2024
"Labelled" is the preferred spelling in British English, while "labeled" is standard in American English, reflecting differences in regional spelling conventions.
Difference Between Labelled and Labeled
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The word "labelled" includes two 'l's as is common in British English, which often doubles the final consonant in verbs before adding a suffix if the final syllable is stressed. On the other hand, "labeled" uses a single 'l', which is characteristic of American English that typically does not double the consonant if the preceding vowel is not stressed.
This difference is representative of broader spelling variations between British and American English, such as "travelled/traveled" or "cancelled/canceled". While "labelled" is often seen in texts from the UK, Commonwealth countries, and other places influenced by British English, "labeled" is predominant in the United States and is recognized by American dictionaries as the correct form.
In professional and academic writing, the choice between "labelled" and "labeled" should align with other regional spelling conventions used in the document to maintain consistency.
Despite the spelling differences, both forms are understood globally and the meaning referring to the action of attaching a label to something remains unchanged.
Comparison Chart
Preferred Spelling Region
British English
American English
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Number of 'L's
Double 'l'
Single 'l'
Example Use in Sentences
Common in UK, Australia, Canada
Common in the United States
Usage in Academic Writing
Matches with other British spellings
Matches with other American spellings
Recognition in Dictionaries
Recognized in British dictionaries
Recognized in American dictionaries
Compare with Definitions
Labelled
Marked with a label.
Each jar was neatly labelled with its contents.
Labeled
To have attached a tag identifying content or purpose.
The folders were clearly labeled to organize the files.
Labelled
Equipped with a tag indicating information.
The luggage was all labelled before check-in.
Labeled
To designate or name a particular category.
The movie was labeled a blockbuster based on its earnings.
Labelled
To assign a category or name to.
All ingredients were clearly labelled in the cookbook.
Labeled
Marked with information by means of a label.
Each chemical bottle in the lab was carefully labeled.
Labelled
To attach meaning or association.
The period was labelled the Renaissance due to its cultural rebirth.
Labeled
Identified for qualities or characteristics.
She was labeled the fastest runner in the school.
Labelled
Identified or described as.
He was unfairly labelled as a troublemaker.
Labeled
To note or mark with a descriptor.
The vintage wine was labeled with the year and vineyard.
Labelled
An item used to identify something or someone, as a small piece of paper or cloth attached to an article to designate its origin, owner, contents, use, or destination.
Labeled
An item used to identify something or someone, as a small piece of paper or cloth attached to an article to designate its origin, owner, contents, use, or destination.
Labelled
A descriptive term; an epithet.
Labeled
A descriptive term; an epithet.
Labelled
A distinctive name or trademark identifying a product or manufacturer, especially a recording company.
Labeled
A distinctive name or trademark identifying a product or manufacturer, especially a recording company.
Labelled
(Architecture) A molding over a door or window; a dripstone.
Labeled
(Architecture) A molding over a door or window; a dripstone.
Labelled
(Heraldry) A figure in a field consisting of a narrow horizontal bar with several pendants.
Labeled
(Heraldry) A figure in a field consisting of a narrow horizontal bar with several pendants.
Labelled
(Chemistry) See tracer.
Labeled
(Chemistry) See tracer.
Labelled
To attach a label to
Labeled the jars before storing them.
Labeled
To attach a label to
Labeled the jars before storing them.
Labelled
To identify or designate with a descriptive term; describe or classify
"He missed two crucial penalty kicks ... and was labeled a loser by the previously loyal British press" (Phil Ball).
Labeled
To identify or designate with a descriptive term; describe or classify
"He missed two crucial penalty kicks ... and was labeled a loser by the previously loyal British press" (Phil Ball).
Labelled
(Chemistry) To add a tracer to (a compound).
Labeled
(Chemistry) To add a tracer to (a compound).
Labelled
Having a label, tagged.
The butterfly collection had each specimen labelled with the scientific name on a little piece of paper.
Labeled
Having a label, tagged.
The butterfly collection had each specimen labeled with the scientific name on a little piece of paper.
Labelled
Defined or described (as).
He was labelled a racist for his remarks.
Labeled
Defined or described.
He was labeled as a racist for his otherwise innocent remark.
Labelled
Simple past tense and past participle of label
I've labelled the file and put it on your desk.
Labeled
(chemistry) Having an atom replaced by a radioactive isotope
Insulin labeled with iodine-125 was used as a tracer
Labelled
Bearing or marked with a label or tag;
Properly labeled luggage
Labeled
Simple past tense and past participle of label
Labeled
Bearing or marked with a label or tag;
Properly labeled luggage
Common Curiosities
What is the difference between "labelled" and "labeled"?
"Labelled" is British English, while "labeled" is American English.
Why does British English use double 'l' in "labelled"?
British English often doubles the final consonant in such cases when the final syllable is stressed.
Can "labelled" and "labeled" be used interchangeably?
Yes, but usage should align with other regional spellings in the text.
Do dictionaries list both "labelled" and "labeled"?
Yes, but each will note which version is standard for which form of English.
How can I remember which spelling to use?
Remember that American English often uses simpler spellings.
Are there any rules for when to use "labelled" or "labeled"?
The choice depends mostly on the regional spelling preferences.
Are there other words that follow this double consonant rule?
Yes, words like "cancelled/canceled" and "travelling/traveling" follow similar patterns.
Which spelling should I use in international communications?
Use the spelling that aligns with the audience's dialect or the standard dialect of the document.
Does the spelling difference affect the pronunciation?
No, both words are pronounced the same way.
Is "labeled" acceptable in British English?
It is understood but less common and considered American spelling.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
