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.
Here’s why: Although technical specifications are still being worked out, the new standard could deliver nominal peak data rates of more than 40Gbps. PC Magazine, 22 May 2025 Starting with the Radeon RX 9600 XT, AMD has revealed the specifications of the new graphics card, which is set to sit beneath the existing RX 9070 and its launch price of $549 and the RX 9070 XT at $599. Antony Leather, Forbes.com, 21 May 2025 Wi-Fi specifications have been optimized to minimize interference with robotic control systems without disrupting broader campus connectivity. Anne Gelhaus, Mercury News, 16 May 2025 That car was said to make 500 brake horsepower from two electric motors, and the Revolt R would likely do the same, though Baltasar has not released power specifications. Erik Shilling, Robb Report, 13 May 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Specification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specification. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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.

More from Merriam-Webster on specification

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