spec

UK: spɛk | US: spɛk

Definition

  1. n. short for "specification" (a detailed description of design or performance criteria)

  2. n. short for "speculation" (the act of investing in risky ventures for potential profit)

  3. n. informal abbreviation for "special" (colloquial usage, e.g., "spec edition")

Structure
spec <see/look (from Latin "specere")>
Etymology

The word "spec" originates from the Latin root specere ("to look"), which also gives rise to words like "inspect," "spectacle," and "perspective." As a modern abbreviation, it retains the core idea of "examining" or "detailing" (e.g., specifications) or "looking for profit" (speculation). Its colloquial use as "special" is a playful truncation, unrelated to the Latin root.

Examples

  1. The architect drafted the spec for the new building.

  2. He made a fortune through stock market spec.

  3. This car is a limited spec model with exclusive features.

  4. Always check the tech spec before buying a device.

  5. Her investment strategy relies heavily on spec.