Definitions

special education

[spesh-uhl ej-oo-key-shuhn] / ˈspɛʃ əl ˌɛdʒ ʊˈkeɪ ʃən /

NOUN

education for those with special needs

Synonyms

WEAK

compensatory education learning disability education remedial education special ed special needs education

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“These kids could have been in the street or dead or not had the special education or help they needed.”

From MarketWatch • Jun. 8, 2026

Lynch, a former non-league football manager and founder of special education school NexGen Academy, was said to have suffered serious injuries to his eye.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

Mosley suggested that instead of working to make a Kirk holiday, Kansas lawmakers could fully fund special education programs in the state, or address rural hospital closures or raise the minimum wage.

From Salon • Feb. 16, 2026

San Diego on Friday averted a one-day teachers strike planned later this month over union demands for more special education staffing.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 13, 2026

A former navy officer was working on his B.S. degree in special education when he saw Luke’s listing on Florida’s adoption website.

From "Three Little Words: A Memoir" by Ashley Rhodes-Courter