/ ˈspeʃl; NAmE / adjective , noun
■ adjective
1.
[ usually before noun ] not ordinary or usual; different from what is normal
SYN exceptional :
The school will only allow this in special circumstances.
Some of the officials have special privileges.
There is something special about this place.
2.
more important than others; deserving or getting more attention than usual :
What are your special interests?
She's a very special friend.
Our special guest on next week's show will be ...
Don't lose it—it's special.
3.
organized or intended for a particular purpose :
a special event
These teachers need special training.
4.
used by or intended for one particular person or group of people :
She has a special way of smiling.
He sent a special message to the men.
5.
[ only before noun ] better or more than usual :
As an only child she got special attention.
Please take special care of it.
—compare especial
■ noun
1.
something that is not usually available but is provided for a particular purpose or on one occasion :
an election-night special on television
The menu changes regularly and there are daily specials to choose from.
2.
( informal , especially NAmE ) a price for a particular product in a shop / store or restaurant that is lower than usual :
There's a special on coffee this week.
••
WORD ORIGIN
Middle English : shortening of Old French especial especial or Latin specialis , from species appearance, from specere to look.