*specification*

n. [ Cf. F. spécification, LL. specificatio. ] 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 ]