specification Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a detailed description of design criteria for a piece of work
    spec.
  2. noun naming explicitly
  3. noun (patent law) a document drawn up by the applicant for a patent of invention that provides an explicit and detailed description of the nature and use of an invention
  4. noun a restriction that is insisted upon as a condition for an agreement
    stipulation.

WordNet

Spec`i*fi*ca"tion noun
Etymology
Cf. F. spécification, LL. specificatio.
Definitions
  1. The act of specifying or determining by a mark or limit; notation of limits.
    This specification or limitation of the question hinders the disputers from wandering away from the precise point of inquiry. I. Watts.
  2. The designation of particulars; particular mention; as, the specification of a charge against an officer.
  3. A written statement containing a minute description or enumeration of particulars, as of charges against a public officer, the terms of a contract, the description of an invention, as in a patent; also, a single article, item, or particular, an allegation of a specific act, as in a charge of official misconduct.

Webster 1913