very special episode

American  

[ver-ee spesh-uhl ep-uh-sohd] / ˈvɛr i ˈspɛʃ əl ˈɛp əˌsoʊd /

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.

---

Etymology

Origin of very special episode

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

See Examples For:

very special episode

Asking whether the man who ripped Jimmy’s life apart merits forgiveness, though, isn’t an exercise engaged in on TV beyond the occasional very special episode.

From Salon ● Dec. 14, 2024

Satinder Kaur, collections manager for Dumfries House, said: "At The Prince's Foundation, we are very proud to have partnered with The Repair Shop for this very special episode."

From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2022

‘Well, we weren’t going to make a very special episode out of it or anything.’

From Seattle Times ● Dec. 1, 2021

Speaking of “Masterpiece,” original host Alistair Cooke is remembered on a very special episode of the anthology series.

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 8, 2021

We have a very special episode this week!

From Slate ● Jun. 12, 2020

Random Word

Spin the wheel and learn a new word!

---