special needs

plural noun

Synonyms of special needsnext
: any of various difficulties (such as a physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning disability or impairment) that causes an individual to require additional or specialized services or accommodations (such as in education or recreation)
students with special needs
special-needs
ˈspe-shəl-ˈnēdz How to pronounce special needs (audio)
adjective
or special needs
special-needs children
a special needs teacher

Examples of special needs in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
So, for example, the information technology department is responsible for recording and tracking Chromebooks and iPads, while the special education department would record and track audio equipment purchased for students with special needs. — Kathryn Blackman, The Conversation, 31 Aug. 2026 Some could help families raise their children closer to their religious beliefs; others like to take advantage of often smaller classroom sizes or special needs education. — Isa Almeida, Oklahoman, 27 Aug. 2026 Public education reform Taylor Eowers is a public school teacher with a son who has special needs. — Maven Navarro updated August 26, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 Aug. 2026 Summer Downtown Classic Car Cruise Check out classics in this car cruise, with all proceeds going to the Horizon Field, an all-inclusive special needs sports facility in Acworth. — Mary Caldwell, AJC.com, 25 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for special needs

Word History

First Known Use

1899, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of special needs was in 1899

Rhymes for special needs

See All Rhymes for special needs

Browse Nearby Words

special master
special needs
specialness
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Special needs.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/special%20needs. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

special needs

plural noun
: any of various difficulties (such as physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning disability or impairment) that causes an individual to require additional or specialized services or accommodations (such as in education or recreation)
special–needs adjective

Medical Definition

special needs

noun plural
: the individual requirements (as for education) of a person with a disadvantaged background or a mental, emotional, or physical disability or a high risk of developing one
Some urban homeschooled kids, particularly those with special needs, were previously enrolled in school but not served well there.—Linda Perlstein, Newsweek
special-needs adjective
special-needs students
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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