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 Words From

• spe·cial-needs adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of special needs¹

First recorded in 1895–1900

Example Sentences

David Goldberg, California Teachers Assn. president, said the nation’s public schools face a critical moment — needing more funding for safe and stable learning environments, higher pay for teachers and more support for special needs students.

From Los Angeles Times

A recent review into Northern Ireland's entire education system noted that "many learners with special needs face particular difficulties at the point of leaving school and embarking upon adult life".

From BBC

But they have widely neglected one major group of students with special needs: the academically gifted.

From Los Angeles Times

But caring for a special needs child made navigating the long, inflexible hours nearly impossible.

From Los Angeles Times

Caring for a child with special needs made this inflexibility even harder for me to navigate.

From Los Angeles Times