very special episode

[ ver-ee spesh-uhl ep-uh-sohd ]

noun

1. an episode of a television series that deals with a serious issue, usually something controversial or socially difficult to talk about:

   When I’m unwinding with a favorite sitcom from the 80s, the last thing I want to see is a very special episode about teenage alcoholism.

Word History and Origins

Origin of very special episode¹

First recorded in 1940–45 as a term used in art history; its current sense first appeared in 1980–85 and was used in television program advertising

Example Sentences

Mayim Bialik and the cast of Blossom Charming family moment, or the beginning of a “Very Special Episode” of Blossom?

From The Daily Beast

In other words, this was a very special episode of the show, and a landmark episode of television, in general.

From The Daily Beast

Suddenly, collective greatness was sacrificed for individual silliness, with each week marking a Very Special Episode.

From The Daily Beast

But we're too afraid it'll make a Very Special Episode about it.

From The Daily Beast