special needs

American  

[spesh-uhl needz] / ˈspɛʃ əl ˈnidz /

plural noun

Sometimes Offensive.

1. the special educational requirements of those with learning difficulties, emotional or behavioral problems, or physical disabilities.

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special needs British  

plural noun

1. 1. the educational requirements of pupils or students suffering from any of a wide range of physical disabilities, medical conditions, intellectual difficulties, or emotional problems, including deafness, blindness, dyslexia, learning difficulties, and behavioural problems

   2. ( as modifier )

      special-needs teachers

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Sensitive Note

See special.

Other Word Forms

• special-needs
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of special needs

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

special needs

Moreover, when students leave public schools for private academies, the students left behind are disproportionately special needs students who cost more to educate.

From Salon ● Jul. 28, 2026

She knew he was the one when she saw him at church helping a singer with special needs.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 28, 2026

Everitt agrees that hot weather "affects many children with special needs", especially those who use wheelchairs, like Amelia.

From BBC ● Jun. 22, 2026

Fernandez said his daughter has special needs and her mother had to give up her career to become a full-time caregiver.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jun. 9, 2026

They called me Bobby or Robert, and they were all very nice to me that year, as if I had special needs.

From "The Misfits" by James Howe