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

In 2023, there was one incident of unruly passenger behavior for every 480 flights compared to one for every 568 flights in 2022, the trade association said, without specifying how many of these incidents involved alcohol. —Issy Ronald, CNN, 14 Jan. 2025

The law does not specify a time frame in which this disclosure should occur. —Jennah Pendleton, Sacramento Bee, 14 Jan. 2025

Wang specified the content of the alert is not saved. —Caitlin Chandler, WIRED, 13 Jan. 2025

The documents do not specify the terms of the settlement. —Sarah Cutler, Idaho Statesman, 13 Jan. 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

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