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

Tuesday’s comments are his most detailed yet in specifying other sectors to be hit with fresh barriers if implemented. —Bloomberg, The Mercury News, 19 Feb. 2025

Fabio Wajngarten, a lawyer for Bolsonaro, did not immediately comment on the charges but said there would be a statement, without specifying when. —Eléonore Hughes and Mauricio Savarese, Los Angeles Times, 19 Feb. 2025

In 2012, New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees filed a grievance arguing that the 2011 CBA did not specify whether the three tag limit was applied across multiple teams. —Mark Puleo, The Athletic, 18 Feb. 2025

However, the third Monday in February is officially George Washington’s birthday, as designated in the law that specifies holidays for federal employees. —Andrew Torgan, CNN, 16 Feb. 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