Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Showing results for special education. Search instead for special occasion.
Synonyms

special education

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

noun

  1. specialized or modified instruction for students with unique learning needs, especially students with identified disabilities. SPED


Sensitive Note

See special.

Etymology

Origin of special education

First recorded in 1920–25

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.

See Examples For:

"Labour's flagship plans to reform special education in England are at risk of unravelling", according to the Guardian.

From BBC ● Oct. 8, 2026

To get the raise she needs to take four master’s-level classes, in addition to the master’s degree in special education she already holds.

From MarketWatch ● Aug. 26, 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

He told us that if we could find her the right kind of school, a school with a strong special education program, it would help immensely.

From "The Book of Unknown Americans" by Cristina Henríquez

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember new words for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com