noun
Uncommon
spec
SPEHK
Spec (noun) means a detailed technical requirement or description of something, short for "specification.". Example: “The engineer checked the part against the spec before installing it.”
noun
1
A detailed technical requirement or description of something, short for "specification."
"The engineer checked the part against the spec before installing it."
"The new laptop's specs include a faster processor and more storage."
How to use spec
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishShort for "specification" — the detailed requirements or features of a product or project.
Common pairings
tech specs
meet spec
build to spec
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- specs, spec's
- Past tense
- speced, spec'd, spec'ed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The engineer checked the part against the _____ before installing it.
Etymology
A clipped, informal form of "specification."
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “spec” mean?
The word “spec” means a detailed technical requirement or description of something, short for "specification.". In plain terms, short for "specification" — the detailed requirements or features of a product or project.
How do you pronounce “spec”?
“Spec” is pronounced SPEHK (/ˈspɛk/ in IPA).
How do you use “spec” in a sentence?
Here is “spec” used in a sentence: “The engineer checked the part against the spec before installing it.”
What part of speech is “spec”?
“Spec” is a noun.
Is “spec” a common word?
“Spec” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between "spec" and "specification"?
"Spec" is simply an informal shortening of "specification," referring to a detailed technical requirement or description of something. The two are interchangeable in meaning, but "spec" is more casual and common in everyday technical conversation.
Is "spec" a formal or informal term?
"Spec" is informal shorthand, commonly used in technical, engineering, and product contexts, whereas "specification" is the fuller, more formal term used in official documents.
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