specify
/ˈspɛs.ɪ.faɪ/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: specifies · specifying
Sense 1
Meaning · English
To state explicitly, or in detail, or as a condition.
Verb
Examples
I was nevere somouned, ne never hadde tydynges of this matier but by seyd lettres and other fleying tales that I heve herd sithen, ne nevere hadde to do more with the seyd John Wortes than is specified in the seyd instruccion.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
To include in a specification.
Verb
Examples
It seems to me that whoever at the Department of Transport or the train operating companies, or both, is specifying the standard of seats these days has taken leave of their senses and opted for cheapness over comfort.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “specify” mean?
To state explicitly, or in detail, or as a condition.
Is “specify” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.