special

Universal Words adjective, noun adjective 1 [usuallybeforenoun] not ordinary or usual; different from what is normal: The school will only allow this in special circumstances. * Some of the officials have special privileges. * There is something special about this place. * This type of wood needs special treatment. 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 / occasion * These teachers need special training. * Dr Pearce is the special adviser on environmental issues. 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 [onlybeforenoun] better or more than usual: As an only child she got special attention. * Please take special care of it. compareESPECIAL 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 AmE) 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.