Delicacy
ˈdɛlɪkəsi
Definitions
3 meaningsA food considered rare or choice, especially one that is expensive or difficult to obtain.
ˈdɛlɪkəsi
A choice food item.
The chef prepared a local delicacy for the special guests.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're at a fancy restaurant and they bring out a super special food that's hard to find and costs a lot of money. That's a delicacy! Like, maybe, caviar or escargots. They are like a treat.
👶 For kids: A yummy food that's special and you don't eat every day, like fancy candy or a special dessert.
More Examples
This cheese is considered a regional delicacy.
Many tourists visit the country to try its famous delicacies.
How It's Used
"The restaurant served many local delicacies."
"This rare truffle is considered a great delicacy."
The fineness or exquisiteness of something.
ˈdɛlɪkəsi
Fineness or exquisiteness.
The delicacy of the lace was remarkable.
💡 Simply: Think about the details, like how a tiny flower petal feels or how a really beautiful piece of art has super small details. It's all about the delicate touch and how refined something is.
👶 For kids: When something is very gentle, soft, and beautiful, like a tiny butterfly's wings.
More Examples
The performance displayed a great delicacy in execution.
The dancer moved with incredible delicacy.
How It's Used
"The artist captured the delicacy of the light on the water."
"Her writing showed great delicacy in describing the emotions."
The ability to handle difficult or sensitive situations tactfully and skillfully.
ˈdɛlɪkəsi
Sensitivity to subtle differences.
The diplomat handled the negotiation with impressive delicacy.
💡 Simply: Imagine your friend is feeling sad, and you're extra thoughtful about your words and actions, so you don't make things worse. That is using delicacy – being careful and gentle.
👶 For kids: Being extra careful and nice in a situation, like when someone is sad or feeling bad.
More Examples
She showed great delicacy in dealing with the grieving family.
His delicacy in approach helped diffuse the tense atmosphere.
How It's Used
"He showed great delicacy in handling the sensitive situation."
"The situation required great delicacy and tact."
From Middle English *delicacye*, from Old French *delicatesse*, from Late Latin *dēlicātia*, from Latin *dēlicātus* ('delicate').
Used in literature and fine dining since the 16th century to describe rare and exquisite items or subtle qualities.
Memory tip
Think of a delicious, exclusive food item you would not typically eat.