(politics, government, Philippines, US) An election scheduled at other than the usual date for a specific purpose, often to fill an office that has become vacant before the incumbent has completed the term.

A sports competition held every two years for people who have intellectual disabilities.

someone who competes in the Special Olympics

A school specifically run for students with disabilities or other problems that need special treatment.

plural of special election

plural of special master

(UK, US, law) An authority appointed by a judge to make sure that judicial orders are actually followed.

(informal) special education

(motor racing) A competitive section of a rally event where the goal is to cover a stretch of closed road in the shortest time.

(uncountable, sometimes hyphenated when used attributively) A kind of postal service in which, for an extra fee, letters and packages are delivered in a highly expedited manner by a special courier.