Delicate
/ˈdɛlɪkət/
Definitions
3 meaningsFragile; easily damaged or broken; requiring careful handling.
/ˈdɛlɪkət/
Easily broken or damaged; fragile.
The artist's delicate brushstrokes created a beautiful portrait.
💡 Simply: Imagine a super thin glass that can break if you're too rough. 'Delicate' things are like that – they need gentle care to stay in one piece! For example, 'Be careful with those ornaments, they're very delicate!'.
👶 For kids: Something that's delicate is easy to break or hurt.
More Examples
She has a delicate constitution, so she gets sick easily.
The surgeon performed a delicate operation to save the patient's sight.
How It's Used
"Handle the antique vase with care; it's quite delicate."
"The experiment requires delicate instruments and precise measurements."
Requiring careful handling or treatment; sensitive; easily offended.
/ˈdɛlɪkət/
Requiring careful handling or treatment; sensitive.
She handled the delicate matter of her friend's divorce with great compassion.
💡 Simply: Imagine a topic that can upset people if you're not careful. A 'delicate' situation is like that – you have to be super gentle and thoughtful about what you say and do. For instance, 'It's a delicate topic; let's be careful how we address it!'
👶 For kids: When something is delicate, you have to be very careful about how you do it.
More Examples
The negotiations were in a delicate stage.
He had to handle the delicate situation with diplomacy.
How It's Used
"The discussion about their relationship was a delicate one."
"The negotiations were in a delicate phase, with the potential to make or break the peace."
Finely made; exquisite; characterized by subtlety or grace.
/ˈdɛlɪkət/
Finely or subtly made or done; exquisite.
The delicate embroidery on the tablecloth added a touch of elegance.
💡 Simply: Imagine something beautiful and refined, with small details that make it special. When something is 'delicate' in this way, it's like a work of art. For instance, 'The dancer's movements were incredibly delicate and graceful!'
👶 For kids: When something is delicate, it's pretty and fancy.
More Examples
The painter captured the delicate hues of the sunset.
The dessert had a delicate balance of flavors.
How It's Used
"The delicate lace on the dress was stunning."
"The chef prepared a dish with a delicate flavor profile."
Idioms & expressions
delicate balance
A situation in which a number of conflicting factors or considerations are involved.
"The economy is in a delicate balance, requiring careful management to avoid recession."
handle with delicate care
To treat something carefully and sensitively.
"He handled his sick mother with delicate care, trying not to stress her any further."
From Latin *dēlicātus* meaning 'alluring, delightful, dainty', related to *dēliciae* 'delights, pleasures'. The word evolved through Old French.
The word 'delicate' has been used since the 14th century, initially referring to something pleasurable and appealing. Its meaning has evolved to also encompass fragility and sensitivity.
Memory tip
Think of a delicate flower, easily crushed.