specification

noun

spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspe-sə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

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

Update: Samsung’s 50-megapixel sensor could be a game-changer While official specifications of the S5KJN3 sensor aren’t readily available, some sources expect this product code to refer to Samsung’s ISOCELL GN3 which has already been announced. —Paul Monckton, Forbes, 31 Dec. 2024

After initial contact, a team member walks a customer through a collaborative design process, diamond selection, and handmade crafting specifications, setting clear timelines and expectations. —Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 28 Dec. 2024

Purists, on the other hand, might seek an original car restored to period-correct specification, though such show queens are going to have to make do with skinny, bias-ply tires, drum brakes, and any number of concessions to modern comfort and performance. —Robert Ross, Robb Report, 20 Dec. 2024

Since then, members of the Port Authority noted during board meetings that several portions of the new pier might not meet the original design specifications for the project. —Andrew Brown, Hartford Courant, 20 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

specification

noun

spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspes-(ə-)fə-ˈkā-shən 

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 

: 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.