Special Olympics

American  

plural noun

1. an international program of fitness and athletic competition for children and adults who have mental and often physical disabilities, founded in 1968 and featuring events and quadrennial games modeled on those of the Olympics as well as regional and national competitions.

---

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

• Special Olympian
  noun

Example Sentences

He was one of L.A.’s best-known philanthropists, contributing more than $100 million to causes such as the Special Olympics and the Los Angeles Zoo.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 19, 2025

"Jenkins just put your project and Special Olympics funding on the veto list," Fine wrote to West Melbourne City Councilman John Dittmore.

From Salon • Apr. 2, 2025

She also said there was "a really good conversation" to be had around the Special Olympics for people with intellectual disabilities.

From BBC • Mar. 26, 2025

Erskine’s son went on to compete in the Special Olympics as a swimmer and the chapter on Jimmy from Erskine’s book was consolidated into a pamphlet now distributed by the Special Olympics.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2024

A granddaughter of Boutilier who worked for Special Olympics didn’t immediately return a message seeking comment on his behalf.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 29, 2024