specification
NounWordNet 3.0
Noun (4)
- a detailed description of design criteria for a piece of workSynonyms: spec
- naming explicitly
- (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
- a restriction that is insisted upon as a condition for an agreementSynonyms: stipulation
Webster's Dictionary (GCIDE)
1.The act of specifying or determining by a mark or limit; notation of limits. [1913 Webster]
This specification or limitation of the question hinders the disputers from wandering away from the precise point of inquiry.— I. Watts.[1913 Webster]
2.The designation of particulars; particular mention; as, the specification of a charge against an officer. [1913 Webster]
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. [1913 Webster]
4.A detailed listing or description of the required properties of some object proposed to be built or bought; -- usually used in the plural; as, the building specifications require that it withstand an earthquake of magnitude 8; the program specifications require an option to change the menus. [PJC]
Free On-line Dictionary of Computing
<jargon> (spec) A document describing how some system should work.
(2001-02-06)