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special

adj. · n.
US //ˈspɛʃəɫ// UK //spˈɛʃəl// spe·cial
  1. 1 unique or better (adj.)
    A1 Beginner

    different from what is normal, usually in a way that is better or more important.

    distinguished by a unique, particular, or unusual quality that sets it apart from the ordinary.

    Example

    We are going to a very special restaurant for my mother's birthday.

    Example

    The gallery is hosting a special exhibition featuring rare sketches that have never been displayed to the public before.
  2. 2 specific purpose (adj.)
    A2 Elementary

    made or used for one particular person, thing, or event.

    designed or appointed for a specific purpose, occasion, or function rather than for general use.

    Example

    You need a special tool to open the back of this watch.

    Example

    The government appointed a special committee to investigate the environmental impact of the new highway project.
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  1. 3 military/warfare (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Military

    relating to highly trained soldiers who do difficult or secret work.

    relating to unconventional warfare or elite military units trained for specific, high-risk missions.

    Example

    The special forces were sent in to rescue the hostages.

    Example

    The operation required the precision of special operations units capable of navigating the dense jungle without detection.
  2. 4 restaurant dish (n.)
    A2 Elementary Cooking

    a dish that is not on the regular menu or is sold at a lower price.

    a meal offered by a restaurant for a limited time, often featuring seasonal ingredients or a discounted price.

    Example

    The waiter told us that the seafood pasta was the daily special.

    Example

    While the standard menu is excellent, the chef's evening special usually highlights the freshest catch from the local market.
  3. 5 TV programme (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a single television show that is not part of a regular series.

    an exceptional or standalone episode of a television series or a one-off broadcast event.

    Example

    The comedy show is filming a Christmas special this week.

    Example

    The network aired a two-hour news special documenting the historical significance of the recent election results.
  4. 6 theatre lighting (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Technical Theatre

    a light used to shine on one specific person or thing on a stage.

    a luminaire used to highlight a specific performer or prop, distinct from the general wash of the stage.

    Example

    The technician adjusted the special to make sure the lead actor was visible.

    Example

    The lighting designer requested an additional special to emphasize the protagonist's isolation during the final soliloquy.
Origin

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.

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