Definition of specify
specified
;specifying
transitive verb
1 : to name or state explicitly or in detail
2 : to include as an item in a specification
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.
Origin and Etymology of specify
Middle English specifien, from Anglo-French specifier, from Late Latin specificare, from specificus
First Known Use: 14th century
SPECIFY Defined for English Language Learners
specify
playDefinition of specify for English Language Learners
-
: to name or mention (someone or something) exactly and clearly : to be specific about (something)
SPECIFY Defined for Kids
specify
playDefinition of specify for Students
specified
;specifying
1 : to mention or name exactly and clearly Can you specify the cause of the crash?
2 : to include in a description of work to be done or materials to be used
Learn More about specify
-
Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for specify Spanish Central: Translation of specify Nglish: Translation of specify for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of specify for Arabic speakers
Seen and Heard
What made you want to look up specify? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).
Writing? Check your grammar now!