adj.
- better, greater, or otherwise different from what is usual.
- designed for or belonging to a particular person, place, or event.
- used to denote education for children with particular needs.
n.
- something designed or organized for a particular occasion or purpose.
▸a dish not on a regular menu but served on a particular day.
- a person assigned to a special duty.
Derivative
Etymology
ME: shortening of OFr. especial ‘especial’ or L. specialis, from species (see species).