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Definition of specify

specify

/ˈspɛsɪfaɪ/
spec · i · fy
Adverb:specifically
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Adjective:specific
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Past Simple:specified
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Past Participle:specified
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Present Participle:specifying
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specify Lexical Profile

specify Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To identify or state a fact, requirement, or detail clearly and definitely.

Example

"Please specify your dietary restrictions on the registration form before Friday."

2

To include a matter or condition expressly in a contract, specification, or formal agreement.

Example

"The architectural blueprints specify the use of reinforced steel for the primary support beams."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for specify

• Nearby Words

specification
specificity
specificness
specify
specimen
speck
speckle

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 14th century from Old French 'especifier', from Late Latin 'specificare' ('to mention particularly'), derived from 'species' ('kind, sort') and 'facere' ('to make').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Specify. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/specify
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