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Definition of specially

specially

/ˈspɛʃ.əl.i/
spe · cial · ly
Adjective:special
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specially Lexical Profile

specially Game Scores & Validity

• adverb

1

For a specific purpose, person, or occasion; in a distinct or customized manner.

Example

"The ergonomic chair was specially designed to support the lower back during long working hours."

2

To an unusual or particularly great extent; above all (used mainly in informal speech as a variant of 'especially').

Example

"She enjoys outdoor activities in the winter, specially cross-country skiing."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for specially
Antonyms
View all antonyms for specially

Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with 'especially': in formal usage, 'specially' means 'for a specific purpose or in a special manner' (frequently modifying a past participle, as in 'specially designed'), whereas 'especially' means 'above all' or 'to a great extent'.

• Rhymes for specially

• Nearby Words

specialization
specialize
specialized
specially
specialness
specialty
specie

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'speciali', borrowed from Old French 'especialment' or formed directly from the adjective 'special' (from Latin 'specialis', meaning 'individual' or 'particular', from 'species', meaning 'kind' or 'sort') plus the adverbial suffix '-ly'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Specially. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/specially
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