detail Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun an isolated fact that is considered separately from the whole
    item; point.
    • several of the details are similar
    • a point of information
  2. noun a small part that can be considered separately from the whole
    item; particular.
    • it was perfect in all details
  3. noun extended treatment of particulars
    • the essay contained too much detail
  4. noun a crew of workers selected for a particular task
    • a detail was sent to remove the fallen trees
  5. noun a temporary military unit
    contingent.
    • the peacekeeping force includes one British contingent
  6. verb provide details for
  7. verb assign to a specific task
    • The ambulances were detailed to the fire station

WordNet

De"tail noun
Etymology
F. détail, fr. détailler to cut in pieces, tell in detail; pref. dé- (L. de or dis-) + tailler to cut. See Tailor.
Definitions
  1. A minute portion; one of the small parts; a particular; an item; -- used chiefly in the plural; as, the details of a scheme or transaction.
    The details of the campaign in Italy. Motley.
  2. A narrative which relates minute points; an account which dwells on particulars.
  3. (Mil.) The selection for a particular service of a person or a body of men; hence, the person or the body of men so selected. Syn. -- Account; relation; narrative; recital; explanation; narration.
De"tail transitive verb
Etymology
Cf. F. détailler to cut up in pieces, tell in detail. See Detail, n.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Detailed ; present participle & verbal noun Detailing
Definitions
  1. To relate in particulars; to particularize; to report minutely and distinctly; to enumerate; to specify; as, he detailed all the facts in due order.
  2. (Mil.) To tell off or appoint for a particular service, as an officer, a troop, or a squadron. Syn. -- Detail, Detach. Detail respect the act of individualizing the person or body that is separated; detach, the removing for the given end or object.

Webster 1913