1. Surpassing what is common, usual or expected
   "a special occasion"; "what's so special about the year 2000?";
   - especial, exceptional, particular
    
2. Unique or specific to a person or thing or category
   "the special features of a computer"; "my own special chair";
   - particular, peculiar
    
3. Adapted to or reserved for a particular purpose
   "a special kind of paint"; "a special medication for arthritis"
    
4. For a special service or occasion
   "had to get special permission for the event"; "a special correspondent"; "a special adviser to the committee"
    
5. Having a specific function or scope
   "a special role in the mission";
   - limited
    
6. First and most important
   "his special interest is music"; "she gets special satisfaction from her volunteer work";
   - particular
    
7. Added to a regular schedule
   "a special holiday flight"; "put on special buses for the big game";
   - extra

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
   "The waiter recommended the day's special"
    
3. A television production that features a particular person, work or topic
   "the last of a series of BBC specials on Iran is being shown tonight"

Derived forms: specials

See also: extraordinary, primary, specialised [Brit], specialized, specific, uncommon, unscheduled

Type of: dish, offer, offering, television program, television show, TV program, TV show

Encyclopedia: Special