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.

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Other Word Forms

• Special Olympian
  noun

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

Special Olympics

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

He partners with the Special Olympics to raise awareness and support for his sister and others with disabilities.

From Los Angeles Times ● Nov. 11, 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

They participated in a football clinic with Special Olympics Michigan athletes on a cold, blustery morning in a ballpark that used to be the site of old Tigers Stadium.

From Seattle Times ● Apr. 24, 2024

The Special Olympics GB helped Lloyd secure a place in the marathon, and he is also a gymnast and footballer with the organisation.

From BBC ● Apr. 21, 2024