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 suit does not specify how much of the $4 million worth of gas went to Freedom Fuel stations or indicate whether the stations have a relationship with KRSM or Kazmi. — Ryan Ermey, CNBC, 30 Aug. 2026 Instead of sending vague meeting invites, specify the topic so employees do not default to anxiety. — Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 The White House hasn’t specified how a lower tariff rate on ground beef would lower prices, only telling CNN that foreign exporters are willing to discount the beef because there are no duties. — Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 29 Aug. 2026 Engineers can specify aluminum tubes with wider diameters and thicker walls without incurring a weight penalty. — New Atlas, 29 Aug. 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 1 Sep. 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
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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