To state explicitly or in detail: specified the amount needed; specified what was wrong with the program. 2. To include in a specification. 3. To determine or bring about (a specific result): a gene that specifies the synthesis of a single protein.
Definition of specify verb in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.
v.t. to mention or name specifically or definitely; state in detail: He did not specify the amount needed. to give a specific character to. to set forth as a specification. to name or state as a condition: He specified that he be given my power of attorney. v.i. to make a specific mention or statement.
To explicitly name something or state a particular detail, you specify that thing. So, when you have a craving for dessert and you send someone to the store to buy ice cream, you may want to specify a flavor. If you assign something for a particular purpose, this verb means that you specify.
specify (third-person singular simple present specifies, present participle specifying, simple past and past participle specified) (transitive) To state explicitly, or in detail, or as a condition. quotations
