of a distinct or particular kind or character

a special kind of key.

being a particular one; particular, individual, or certain

You'd better call the special number.

pertaining or peculiar to a particular person, thing, instance, etc.; distinctive; unique

the special features of a plan.

having a specific or particular function, purpose, etc.

a special messenger.

distinguished or different from what is ordinary or usual

a special occasion; to fix something special.

extraordinary; exceptional, as in amount or degree; especial

special importance.

being such in an exceptional degree; particularly valued

a special friend.

a special person or thing.

a train used for a particular purpose, occasion, or the like.

a special edition of a newspaper.

Theater . a spotlight reserved for a particular area, property, actor, etc.

Give me the coffin special.

a temporary, arbitrary reduction in the price of regularly stocked goods, esp. food; a particularly worthwhile offer or price

The special this week is on sirloin steaks.

Television . a single program not forming part of a regular series.

adjective

common , commonplace , indistinctive , normal , ordinary , undistinguished , unimportant , usual

adjective

appropriate , best , certain , characteristic , chief , choice , defined , definite , designated , determinate , different , earmarked , especial , exceptional , exclusive , express , extraordinary , festive , first , gala , individual , limited , main , major , marked , memorable , momentous , out of the ordinary , particular , peculiar , personal , primary , proper , rare , red-letter * , reserved , restricted , select , set , significant , smashing , sole , specialized , specific , uncommon , unique , unreal * , unusual , additional , dear , distinct , distinctive , distinguished , extra , extravaganza , favorite , important , notable , noteworthy , privileged , remarkable