specify

verb

spec·​i·​fy ˈspe-sə-ˌfī 

specified; specifying

transitive verb

1

: to name or state explicitly or in detail

2

: to include as an item in a specification

specifiable

ˌspe-sə-ˈfī-ə-bəl 

adjective

specifier

ˈspe-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r 

noun

Synonyms

• define
• lay down
• prescribe

Examples of specify in a Sentence

Can you specify the cause of the argument?

Specify the color and quantity when you order.

He clearly specified California wine.

The instructions do not specify what kind of screws to use.

All subscriptions are for one year unless otherwise specified.

At the specified time, we rang the bell.

She agreed to the terms specified in the contract.

Recent Examples on the Web

Unless otherwise specified by the instructions on your liquid masking product, let the paint dry before attempting to remove the liquid masking tape. —Kamron Sanders, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Mar. 2025

While none of that is specified for Medicare or Medicaid, the budget does outline that the House Energy and Commerce Committee would need to make the $880 billion in cuts over the next decade. —Mark Davis, Newsweek, 14 Mar. 2025

Officials declined to specify why the immigrants were transferred, and the government has not said whether Guantanamo might be used again in the future. —Rebecca Santana, Chicago Tribune, 14 Mar. 2025

Additionally, the house provides type not specified. —Bay Area Home Report, The Mercury News, 13 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English specifien, from Anglo-French specifier, from Late Latin specificare, from specificus

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing specify

• pre-specify

Rhymes for specify

• abscissae
• alibi
• alkali
• alumni
• amoebae
• amplify
• annuli
• beautify
• brachii
• butterfly
• calculi
• certify

Kids Definition

specify

verb

spec·​i·​fy ˈspes-ə-ˌfī 

specified; specifying

1

: to name or mention exactly and clearly

specify the cause

2

: to include in a specification

specify oak flooring