This is the 208th most frequent Portuguese word.
especial
"Especial" in Portuguese means "special" in English.
Here, 'especial' is used as an adjective to express importance or significance of the day for the speaker.
O dia de hoje é muito especial para mim.
Today is very special for me.
In this sentence, 'especial' is used to describe the unique or notable quality of the dish.
Aquele restaurante tem um prato especial que você deve experimentar.
That restaurant has a special dish that you should try.
Here, 'especial' characterizes the event as out of the ordinary or significant in some manner.