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.

On Friday, an F-15E Strike Eagle crashed in southwestern Iran, according to media reports, with the pilot rescued by US special forces.

From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026

Otto von Bismarck’s special providence for “fools, drunks, and the United States of America” may be coming to the aid of the current incumbent.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 3, 2026

“She wrote songs that touched people’s hearts,” he wrote, describing her as “a special woman, smart, pure in heart and loving life. She was the best mom I could ever ask for.”

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 3, 2026

At least that’s what Rubino says; she’s putting a special stuffed toy in one basket she’s fashioning, alongside the socks and underwear.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 2, 2026

Case Company of Racine, Wisconsin, sent their special train down through Indiana.

From "The Teacher’s Funeral" by Richard Peck

special

Example Sentences

Related Words