specification

[spes-uh-fi-key-shuhn]

noun

1. the act of specifying.

2. Usually specifications.

   1. a detailed description or assessment of requirements, dimensions, materials, etc., as of a proposed building, machine, bridge, etc.

   2. Computers.,  a detailed description of the hardware installed, including the memory capacity, processor speed, and graphics card model.

3. a particular item, aspect, calculation, etc., in such a description.

4. something specified, as in a bill of particulars; a specified particular, item, or article.

   Synonyms: qualification, condition, requirement

5. an act of making specific.

6. the state of having a specific character.

specification

/ ˌspɛsɪfɪˈkeɪʃən /

noun

1. the act or an instance of specifying

2. (in patent law) a written statement accompanying an application for a patent that describes the nature of an invention

3. a detailed description of the criteria for the constituents, construction, appearance, performance, etc, of a material, apparatus, etc, or of the standard of workmanship required in its manufacture

4. an item, detail, etc, specified

Other Word Forms

• nonspecification noun
• prespecification noun
• respecification noun
• superspecification noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of specification¹

First recorded in 1605–15; from Medieval Latin specificātiōn- (stem of specificātiō ), equivalent to specificāt(us) (past participle of specificāre “to mention, describe”; specific, -ate ¹ ) + -iōn- -ion

Example Sentences

The Type 26 frigates purchased by the Royal Norwegian Navy will be as similar as possible to those used by their British counterparts, and have the same technical specifications.

From BBC

When buildings designed to those specifications go over their rated capacity, there is not enough room to house additional detainees safely and comfortably.

From Los Angeles Times

He added: "Now it's up to the teachers, who I know have worked diligently over the last 12 months to better understand the qualifications and specifications, to start teaching from September."

From BBC

The rules say that gears and dog rings can be changed for others of identical specification provided the FIA is satisfied there is physical damage to the parts in question.

From BBC

SVI makes security cameras, bespoke amplifiers, medical equipment, to whatever specification their customers, who are mainly in Scandinavia, want.

From BBC

Related Words

• blueprint 
• spec 
• stipulation