specification

noun

spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspe-sə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce specification (audio)
ˌspes-fə-
1
: the act or process of specifying
2
a
: a detailed precise presentation of something or of a plan or proposal for something
usually used in plural
b
: a statement of legal particulars (as of charges or of contract terms)
also : a single item of such statement
c
: a written description of an invention for which a patent is sought

Examples of specification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Detailed specifications were being analyzed, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said. Hakyung Kate Lee, ABC News, 5 Nov. 2024 Apple’s MacBook Is A Single Point Of Failure Apple has spent years stubbornly not adding popular features and specifications to the iPhone. Ewan Spence, Forbes, 2 Nov. 2024 However, check with a staffer on the heights and specifications needed during the booking process so adjustments can be made in advance. Josh Rivera, USA TODAY, 29 Oct. 2024 The new specifications are still in draft so that people can review and provide comments — they’re not adopted by password managers just yet. Jay Peters, The Verge, 15 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for specification 

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of specification was in 1633

Dictionary Entries Near specification

Cite this Entry

“Specification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specification. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

specification

noun
spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspes-(ə-)fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce specification (audio)
1
: the act or process of specifying
2
a
: a description of work to be done or materials to be used
usually used in plural
the architect's specifications for a new building
b
: a single specified item

Legal Definition

specification

noun
spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspe-sə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce specification (audio)
: a detailed precise presentation of something or of a plan or proposal for something: as
a
: a written statement containing a description of particulars (as of charges or contract terms)
b
: a written description of an invention or discovery for which a patent is sought that embodies the manner and process of making and using the invention or discovery and concludes with a claim of that aspect for which the applicant demands credit
c
: a written description of construction work to be done forming part of the contract
usually used in pl.
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