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

While the original definition provided a general framework, the October version goes further in specifying activities these systems might engage in, such as screening, evaluating, categorizing, and making recommendations. —Alonzo Martinez, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024

Waymo didn’t specify how much of this round Alphabet accounted for. —Alena Botros, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2024

The report did not specify how complex those generative AI features would be. —Evelyn Cheng, CNBC, 24 Oct. 2024

Austin did not specify the number of troops included in the deployment. —Ivana Saric, Axios, 23 Oct. 2024

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

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