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 of specify

• define
• 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

The other concerns the number of owners controlling on-demand programming services, and that consideration is not currently specified in section 58 of the Act. — Maureen Kerr, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026

The city has not specified when this summer the lease will be considered, directing the public to keep checking agendas. — Paul Sisson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 July 2026

Manufacturers often continue specifying virgin materials because their performance is well understood, while comparable data for recycled alternatives remain limited. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 26 July 2026

The warnings did not specify the nature or source of the potential danger. — CNN Money, 25 July 2026

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

Rhymes for specify

• abscissae
• adonai
• alibi
• alkali
• alumni
• amoebae
• amplify
• annuli
• beautify
• brachii
• butterfly
• calculi

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