special meaning and definition

SPECIAL noun

Definition of special (noun)

1. a special offering (usually temporary and at a reduced price) that is featured in advertising
   • "they are having a special on pork chops"
2. a dish or meal given prominence in e.g. a restaurant
3. a television production that features a particular person or work or topic
   • "the last of a series of BBC specials on Iran is being shown tonight"

SPECIAL adjective

Definition of special (adjective)

1. unique or specific to a person or thing or category
   • "the particular demands of the job"; "has a particular preference for Chinese art"; "a peculiar bond of sympathy between them"; "an expression peculiar to Canadians"; "rights peculiar to the rich"; "the special features of a computer"; "my own special chair"
   • synonyms: particular, peculiar
2. for a special service or occasion
   • "a special correspondent"; "a special adviser to the committee"; "had to get special permission for the event"
3. surpassing what is common or usual or expected
   • "he paid especial attention to her"; "exceptional kindness"; "a matter of particular and unusual importance"; "a special occasion"; "a special reason to confide in her"; "what's so special about the year 2000?"
   • synonyms: especial, exceptional, particular
4. adapted to or reserved for a particular purpose
   • "a special kind of paint"; "a special medication for arthritis"
5. having a specific function or scope
   • "a special (or specific) role in the mission"
   • synonyms: limited
6. first and most important
   • "his special interest is music"; "she gets special (or particular) satisfaction from her volunteer work"
   • synonyms: particular
7. added to a regular schedule
   • "a special holiday flight"; "put on special buses for the big game"
   • synonyms: extra