[from L. specialis, from species, form, figure, sort, from specio, to see. Hence species primarily is appearance, that which is presented to the eye. This word and especial are the same.]

1. Designating a species of sort. A special idea is called by the schools a species.

2. Particular; peculiar; noting something more than ordinary. She smiles with a special grace. Our Savior is represented every where in Scripture as the special patron of the poor and afflicted.

3. Appropriate; designed for a particular purpose. A private grant is made by a special act of parliament or of congress.

4. Extraordinary; uncommon. Our charities should be universal, but chiefly exercised on special opportunities.

5. Chief in excellence. The king hath drawn the special head of all the land together.