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 the meantime, building professionals continue to see LVT’s value to homeowners and specify it for more projects than any other non-carpet flooring material. —Jamie Gold, Forbes, 15 Oct. 2024

The date that the event took place was not specified. —Althea Legaspi, Rolling Stone, 13 Oct. 2024

One official with knowledge of the matter said parts of the plan are already being implemented, without specifying which parts. —Julia Frankel, Los Angeles Times, 13 Oct. 2024

While the time frame is never specified, the production design, costumes and props all suggest the period in which the 1972 novel was written. —David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 12 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