special needs

[spesh-uhl needz]

plural noun

Sometimes Offensive.

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

special needs

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

Sensitive Note

See special.

Other Word Forms

• special-needs adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of special needs¹

First recorded in 1895–1900