specification

noun

spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspe-sə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

ˌspes-fə-

1

: the act or process of specifying

2

a

: a detailed precise presentation of something or of a plan or proposal for something

—usually used in plural

b

: a statement of legal particulars (as of charges or of contract terms)

also : a single item of such statement

c

: a written description of an invention for which a patent is sought

Examples of specification in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The residence is reportedly is reportedly being renovated according to Prince William and Kate Middleton’s specifications, with new shrubs being planted and a metal fence with black mesh privacy screens being placed around the front of the home to ensure privacy for their family. —Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 2 Sep. 2025

The most important specification for these two microphones is their frequency response. —Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 31 Aug. 2025

Beck said that the original specifications of Neutron were more of a placeholder design as the company worked to develop the medium-lift rocket. —Tariq Malik, Space.com, 29 Aug. 2025

While a timeline and specifications of the final redevelopment remain unclear at this stage, Strojan said the LMHA Board of Commissioners recently gave approval to enter a memorandum of understanding and master developer agreement with LDG Development, which will help illuminate those details. —Killian Baarlaer, The Courier-Journal, 22 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for specification

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

Kids Definition

specification

noun

spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspes-(ə-)fə-ˈkā-shən 

1

: the act or process of specifying

2

a

: a description of work to be done or materials to be used

—usually used in plural

the architect's specifications for a new building

b

: a single specified item

Legal Definition

specification

noun

spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspe-sə-fə-ˈkā-shən 

: a detailed precise presentation of something or of a plan or proposal for something: as

a

: a written statement containing a description of particulars (as of charges or contract terms)

b

: a written description of an invention or discovery for which a patent is sought that embodies the manner and process of making and using the invention or discovery and concludes with a claim of that aspect for which the applicant demands credit

c

: a written description of construction work to be done forming part of the contract

—usually used in pl.