special needs
plural noun
: any of various difficulties (such as a physical, emotional, behavioral, or learning disability or impairment) that causes an individual to require additional or specialized services or accommodations (such as in education or recreation)
students with special needs
special-needs
adjective
or special needs
special-needs children
a special needs teacher
Examples of special needs in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The film’s heartfelt storytelling and sensitivity emphasize the importance of treating individuals with special needs with respect and empathy.
—
Glenn Garner, Deadline, 1 May 2025
His mother, Allison, is an educational assistant at the school, working with special needs students.
—Scott Wheeler, New York Times, 1 May 2025
The cuts could affect services provided by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools for students with special needs.
—John D. Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 30 Apr. 2025
The final priority was to establish essential service to vulnerable populations, including families and seniors with low to moderate incomes and individuals with special needs.
—Gary Warth, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Apr. 2025
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Glenn Garner, Deadline, 1 May 2025
His mother, Allison, is an educational assistant at the school, working with special needs students.
—Scott Wheeler, New York Times, 1 May 2025
The cuts could affect services provided by Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools for students with special needs.
—John D. Simmons, Charlotte Observer, 30 Apr. 2025
The final priority was to establish essential service to vulnerable populations, including families and seniors with low to moderate incomes and individuals with special needs.
—Gary Warth, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for special needs
Cite this Entry
“Special needs.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/special%20needs. Accessed 5 May. 2025.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
special needs
noun plural
: the individual requirements (as for education) of a person with a disadvantaged background or a mental, emotional, or physical disability or a high risk of developing one
Some urban homeschooled kids, particularly those with special needs, were previously enrolled in school but not served well there.—Linda Perlstein, Newsweek
Linda Perlstein, Newsweek
special-needs
adjective
special-needs students
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