Definition
The exact tightening force, stated by the manufacturer in a maintenance manual or service document, that must be applied to a fastener such as a bolt, nut, or screw. Torque is measured in units like inch-pounds or foot-pounds and is applied with a calibrated torque wrench to ensure the fastener is neither too loose nor over-stressed.
Plain English
The precise amount of tightness the manufacturer says a bolt or nut must have. Not 'snug,' not 'as tight as it will go' — a specific number you measure with a torque wrench.
Context Anchor
Seen in maintenance instructions, aircraft manuals, and training examples where a part must be tightened to a precise value.
Derivation
Specified comes from the Latin specificare, meaning 'to mention particularly.' Torque comes from the Latin torquere, 'to twist.' Together: a particular, named amount of twisting force — not a general or approximate one.
Why Pilots Care
Applying the correct value prevents fasteners from loosening in flight or damaging threads and parts.
Intuition Check
Do not read specified torque as “tighten it firmly.” It means use the exact stated twisting force required by the instruction or manual.
Example Sentence 1
The mechanic torqued each cylinder bolt to the specified torque listed in the engine maintenance manual.
Example Sentence 2
Before installing the wheel, confirm the specified torque for the axle nut.