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

Although the exact weight and dimensions of the submarine are yet to be specified, the Blekinge-class vessel is expected to displace roughly 2,000 tons when submerged. —Abhishek Bhardwaj, Interesting Engineering, 27 Nov. 2025

Local media did not specify when Umerov was questioned. —Matthew Robinson, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2025

The acquisition was for more than $100 million, according to a Paxos spokesperson, who declined to specify deal terms. —Carlos Garcia, Fortune, 25 Nov. 2025

None of the lawmakers specified in the video what had motivated them to share the message, or what kind of unlawful orders service members may be receiving. —Chantelle Lee, Time, 25 Nov. 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

Rhymes for specify

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

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