specify

verb

spec·​i·​fy ˈspe-sə-ˌfī How to pronounce specify (audio)
specified; specifying
Synonyms of specifynext

transitive verb

1
: to name or state explicitly or in detail
2
: to include as an item in a specification
specifiable adjective
specifier noun

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
State law does not specify a time frame for appointment decisions, and there’s debate over whether the council must make any appointment at all or can leave the seat vacant until the next election. Nick Sullivan may 8, Charlotte Observer, 8 May 2026 Although an announcement from the Air Force did not specify exactly when the plane would be ready, the timing coincides with July 4 Independence Day and Semiquincentennial celebrations. Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 8 May 2026 The bill would largely bar the introduction of ground forces and would specify how force could be used in Iran. Arkansas Online, 8 May 2026 There's quite a bit of variety between the different buildings so be sure to specify and ask questions when booking. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for specify

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of specify was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Specify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specify. Accessed 10 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

specify

verb
spec·​i·​fy ˈspes-ə-ˌfī How to pronounce specify (audio)
specified; specifying
1
: to name or mention exactly and clearly
specify the cause
2
: to include in a specification
specify oak flooring

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