Emily Dickinson Lexicon

SPE'CIAL-TY, n.

1. Particularity. Specially of rule hath been neglected. – Shak.
2. A particular or peculiar case. Note. This word is now little used in the senses above. Its common acceptation is,
3. A special contract; an obligation or bond; the evidence of a debt by deed or instrument under seal. Such a debt is called a debt by specialty, in distinction from simple contract. – Blackstone.