Special Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈspɛʃəl/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Noun or adjective

Definition

A thing that is unusual or exceptional in some way; a unique or distinguished quality or feature.

Examples

• The special effects in the movie were impressive.
• Her special talent was singing.

Synonyms

• Exceptional
• Unique
• Singular

Antonyms

• Ordinary
• Common
• Banquet

Etymology

The word “special” comes from the Old French word “special”, which is derived from the Latin word “species”, meaning “kind” or “sort”.

Usage Notes

The word “special” can be used as both a noun and an adjective. As a noun, it refers to a unique or exceptional quality. As an adjective, it means unusual or exceptional in some way.

Cultural References

In popular culture, the term “special” has been used in various contexts, such as in the phrase “special delivery” in mail services, “special forces” in military contexts, and “special effects” in filmmaking.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Common idiomatic expressions that include the word “special” include “special request”, “special privileges”, and “special treatment”.

Related Words or Phrases

Words or phrases closely related to “special” include “unique”, “exceptional”, “singular”, and “distinctive”.

Collocations

Common word combinations with the term “special” include “special agent”, “special feature”, and “special thanks”.

Frequency of Use

The word “special” is a commonly used term in modern language, particularly in contexts where uniqueness or exceptional quality is emphasized.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings or variations of “special” include “speciel”, “speciale”, and “specialy”.