spe|cif´ic|ness

spe|cif|ic «spih SIHF ihk», adjective, noun.

–adj.

1. definite; precise; particular: »

a specific command or request, a specific sum of money. There was no specific reason for the quarrel. When you describe something, be specific.

SYNONYM(S): explicit.

2. specially belonging to a thing or group of things; characteristic (of); peculiar (to): »

A scaly skin is a specific feature of snakes. Feathers are a feature specific to birds.

SYNONYM(S): distinctive.

3. a) preventing or curing a particular disease: »

a specific remedy.

b) produced by a special cause or infection: »

a specific disease.

4. of, having to do with, or characteristic of a species: »

the specific name of a plant.

–.

1. any specific statement, quality, or subject: »

He still doesn't know specifics on all issues, but his general knowledge is sharpening and his instincts are surer (Birmingham Post-Herald).

2. a cure for some particular disease; specific remedy: »

Quinine is a specific for malaria. Vitamin B₁₂ is a specific for pernicious anemia.

╂[< Late Latin specificus making up a species < Latin speciēs sort, kind + facere to make]

–spe|cif´ic|ness, noun.