specify

spec·i·fy

transitive verb \ˈspe-sə-ˌfī\

: to name or mention (someone or something) exactly and clearly : to be specific about (something)

spec·i·fiedspec·i·fy·ing

Full Definition of SPECIFY

1

:  to name or state explicitly or in detail

2

:  to include as an item in a specification

— spec·i·fi·able \ˌspe-sə-ˈfī-ə-bəl\ adjective

— spec·i·fi·er \ˈspe-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r\ noun

Examples of SPECIFY

1. Can you specify the cause of the argument?
2. Specify the color and quantity when you order.
3. He clearly specified California wine.
4. The instructions do not specify what kind of screws to use.
5. All subscriptions are for one year unless otherwise specified.
6. At the specified time, we rang the bell.
7. She agreed to the terms specified in the contract.

Origin of SPECIFY

Middle English specifien, from Anglo-French specifier, from Late Latin specificare, from specificus

First Known Use: 14th century

Related to SPECIFY

Synonyms

define, lay down, prescribe

Related Words

decree, dictate, ordain; assign, direct, fix, set, settle; arrange, order; choose, select; adjure, bid, charge, command, enjoin, instruct, tell; conduct, control, govern, lead, manage; coerce, compel, constrain, force; obligate, oblige, require

Near Antonyms

disregard, forget, ignore, neglect, overlook, overpass, pass over, slight