special

[spesh-uhl] / ˈspɛʃ əl /

ADJECTIVE

distinguished, distinctive; important in own way

Synonyms

STRONGEST

appropriate certain different exceptional exclusive extraordinary individual limited main major memorable particular peculiar personal primary proper rare significant specialized specific unique unusual

STRONG

best characteristic chief choice express first gala set smashing sole

WEAK

defined definite designated determinate earmarked especial festive marked momentous out of the ordinary red-letter reserved restricted select uncommon unreal

Antonyms

STRONGEST

OK common commonplace conventional familiar general improper indefinite insignificant like minor normal ordinary regular secondary similar standard uncertain unimportant unlimited unnoteworthy unrestricted unsuitable usual

STRONG

least worst

WEAK

indistinctive undistinguished

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Patrizia’s of Williamsburg, a family-style Italian restaurant in Brooklyn, has a special called Jalen Brunson Rigatoni—pasta dyed with organic blueberry extract and an orange-colored cream sauce.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 7, 2026

Even among international fans, there is special recognition of the Mexican goalkeeper due to his ability to rise to the occasion on the biggest stages.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 7, 2026

"She told me she's very proud of me. To hear those words from her is very, very special to me."

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

In the Pacific Northwest, summertime street parties are rare and special tributes to a sun that hides for half the year.

From Salon • Jun. 6, 2026

Leah led the circles but claimed no special powers.

From "American Spirits" by Barb Rosenstock

Vocabulary lists containing special

"The Lotus Seed"

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Century 21 Accounting, 9e, Chapters 4-7

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"Glencoe Accounting: Real-World Applications & Connections," Vocabulary from Chapter 11

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