English Reference
noun

specification

n.
US /ˌspɛsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ UK /spˌɛsɪfɪkˈeɪʃən/ spec·i·fi·ca·tion

  1. 01 B2 Upper Intermediate Academic Technical

    a detailed list of instructions or requirements that describe how to build or design something.

    an explicit set of requirements to be satisfied by a material, product, or service, often serving as a formal technical document.

    Simple

    The architect sent the final specification for the new house to the builders.

    In context

    The engineering team spent months refining the technical specification to ensure the bridge could withstand extreme weather conditions.

    Usage

    Often used in the plural form 'specifications' or the shortened informal 'specs'.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced FormalAcademic

    the act of naming or describing something very clearly and exactly.

    the act of identifying or naming something with precision and detail.

    Simple

    The contract requires the specification of every material used in the project.

    In context

    The legal framework demands the clear specification of duties for each party involved in the merger.

    Usage

    Usually functions as an uncountable noun in this abstract sense.

Usage detailed specification · meet specification

To be legally sold in Great Britain, new panels must be tested against the industry's G98 standard and the government's product specification.

BBC News· 26 Aug 2026

From Middle French specification, from Medieval Latin specificationem (accusative of specificatio).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Origin la-med -
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated