delicate

del-i-cate · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Easily broken or damaged; fragile.

  2. 2.

    Very fine in texture or structure; subtle and graceful.

  3. 3.

    Requiring careful handling due to sensitivity or complexity.

  4. 4.

    (of a person) Easily made ill; not strong or robust.

  5. 5.

    (of food or flavor) Subtle and pleasant; not strong.

Related words

Antonyms: coarse, crude, robust, rough, sturdy
See also: delicacy, fragile, sensitive, subtle
Synonyms: dainty, fine, fragile, sensitive, subtle

Etymology

From Latin delicatus meaning "alluring, delightful, dainty," possibly from deliciae (pleasure, delight). Entered English in the 14th century through Old French delicat.