special

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   surpassing what is common or usual or expected

   We paid special attention to them.

2. 2
   adj

   having a specific function or scope

   a special (or specific) role in the mission

3. 3
   adj

   for a special service or occasion

   a special correspondent

4. 4
   adj

   first and most important

   My special interest is music.

5. 5
   adj

   adapted to or reserved for a particular purpose

   a special kind of paint

6. 6
   adj

   added to a regular schedule

   a special holiday flight

7. 7
   noun

   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

8. 8
   noun

   a special offering (usually temporary and at a reduced price) that is featured in advertising

   they are having a special on pork chops

Etymology

From Middle English *special, especial, especiall, from Old French especial (whence also French spécial), from Latin speciālis (from speciēs). In this sense displaced native Old English synderlīċ. Doublet of especial.