special, especial, specific, particular, individual mean of or relating to one thing or class. special stresses having a quality, character, identity, or use of its own.

SPECIAL definition: 1. not ordinary or usual: 2. especially great or important, or having a quality that most similar…. Learn more.

1. Something arranged, issued, or appropriated to a particular service or occasion: rode to work on the commuter special. 2. A featured attraction, such as a reduced price: a special on salmon. 3. A single …

In American English the adjective special is overwhelmingly more common than especial in all senses: He will be of special help if you can't understand the documentation.

Feb 3, 2026 · Adjective special (comparative more special or specialer, superlative most special or specialest) Distinguished by a unique, particular, or unusual quality.

noun A person or thing appointed or set apart for a special purpose or occasion, as a constable, a railway-train, an examination, a dispatch, etc.: as, they traveled by special to Chicago; the specials …

Special definition: Surpassing what is common or usual; exceptional.

Particular, specific, or individual to a single person, thing, or set.

SPECIAL definition: of a distinct or particular kind or character. See examples of special used in a sentence.

The word 'special' originated in Middle English from the Old French 'especial', which means 'particular' or 'appropriate'. Over time, the meaning evolved to refer to something better, greater, or different …