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.

When you see its humble ingredients, you will surely doubt how supremely special it is; it simply doesn’t stand to reason that such a modest list could become something so ambrosial.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

The US delegation in Islamabad -- led by Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner -- was frustrated by Iran's refusal to give up what it insists is a civilian nuclear programme.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 2026

There is just something special about watching an athlete at the top of their game around one of the sport's most iconic venues.

From BBC • Apr. 12, 2026

Algeria carries a special significance for Leo: He will pay homage to St. Augustine, the fifth-century saint after whom the pope’s religious order is named.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 12, 2026

Why anybody—even a girl—would take a fancy to a doll was beyond me, but this one was something special.

From "The Seven Wonders of Sassafras Springs" by Betty G. Birney

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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