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
ˌspe-sə-ˈfī-ə-bəl How to pronounce specify (audio)
adjective
specifier
ˈspe-sə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce specify (audio)
noun

Synonyms of specify

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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.
The disclosure does not specify which approach was taken here. — Shehan Chandrasekera, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 Smith did not specify the type of cancer, but said the illness had spread and Whimsy needed to begin chemotherapy. — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 2 July 2026 But Ginther noted that the way the stars were to be laid out was never specified, which means some of the designs can appear to be curious and compelling. — Eric Shawn, FOXNews.com, 2 July 2026 Nara did not specify exactly what type of cancer Whimsy was diagnosed with or what her current condition is now. — Kayla Grant, PEOPLE, 3 July 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

Phrases Containing specify

Rhymes for specify

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Browse Nearby Words

specifier
specify
specimen
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Cite this Entry

“Specify.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specify. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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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

More from Merriam-Webster on specify

Nglish: Translation of specify for Spanish Speakers

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