specification

noun

spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspe-sə-fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce specification (audio)
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 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
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 two companies have been working together since 2025 on fuel specifications, manufacturability and production planning. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 27 Aug. 2026 The most productive discussions were rarely about specifications. — John Graham Harper, Forbes.com, 21 Aug. 2026 Final Thoughts The HeyGears Reflex RS Turbo succeeds by focusing on the entire printing experience rather than chasing a single specification. — Michael Lydick, PC Magazine, 21 Aug. 2026 Unspun also has yet to disclose the blend ratios, performance specifications or production volumes for its new fabrics, nor whether brands are already testing them commercially. — Alexandra Harrell, Footwear News, 20 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for specification

Word History

First Known Use

1633, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of specification was in 1633

Rhymes for specification

See All Rhymes for specification

Browse Nearby Words

specificate
specification
specificative
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Specification.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/specification. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

specification

noun
spec·​i·​fi·​ca·​tion ˌspes-(ə-)fə-ˈkā-shən How to pronounce specification (audio)
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 How to pronounce specification (audio)
: 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.

More from Merriam-Webster on specification

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about specification

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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