special
Pronunciation: /ˈspɛʃ(ə)l/
adjective
- 1better, greater, or otherwise different from what is usual: they always made a special effort at Christmas
- exceptionally good or pleasant: she’s a very special person
- (of a subject) studied in particular depth: I wanted to take the Crusades as my special subject
- 2belonging specifically to a particular person or place: we want to preserve our town’s special character
- designed or organized for a particular person, purpose, or occasion: we will return by special coaches
- used to denote education for children with particular needs, especially those with learning difficulties.
noun
- a thing, such as a product or broadcast, that is designed or organized for a particular occasion or purpose: television’s election night specials
- a dish not on the regular menu at a restaurant but served on a particular day: customers queue for such specials as vegetable lasagne
- a person assigned to a special duty; a special constable or special correspondent: he was one of a detachment of two white policemen and two native specials
- informal a product or service offered at a temporarily reduced price: Mrs Hill was a careful shopper, choosing house brands and in-store specials
Origin:
Middle English: shortening of Old French especial 'especial' or Latin specialis, from species 'appearance' (see species)