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.
None of the six peptides are FDA-approved, but compounding pharmacies already provide some peptides like semaglutide, which are FDA-approved, for people with special needs. — C. Michael White, The Conversation, 7 Aug. 2026 The initiative also aims to counter the perception that the facility is merely a gym and reestablish it as a community anchor for families, seniors, single parents and children with special needs. — Chase Jordan august 7, Charlotte Observer, 7 Aug. 2026 Look for a primary vet who understands special needs pets, and consider having a veterinary neurologist or other specialist available for guidance. — Pat Mueller, USA Today, 7 Aug. 2026 Brittany Cartwright is navigating divorce and raising a son with special needs. — Perrie Samotin, Glamour, 5 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 13 Aug. 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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