Word
specs
US/ˈspɛks/
UK/spˈɛks/
Definitions
01glasses
B1 · Intermediate Countable noun Informal · British English
n. an informal word for glasses that you wear to see better.
n. an informal clipping of 'spectacles', referring to corrective eyewear.
“I need to get my specs repaired because the frame is bent.”
“He fumbled for his specs on the bedside table, unable to read the clock without the thick lenses.”
Usage
Always used in the plural form when referring to eyewear.
Teaching tip
While understood globally, this is particularly common in British English; 'glasses' is the more neutral choice for learners.
Synonyms
02to specify
C1 · Advanced Technology Informal · Technical
v. to write down or choose the exact details for a project.
v. to provide or include specific technical requirements for a design or product.
“The architect usually specs high-quality wood for the floors.”
“The client specs a very particular type of reinforced glass for the storefront, which significantly increased the overall budget.”
Usage
This is the third-person singular form of the verb 'to spec'.
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/specs