delicate

adjective
UK: /ˈdel.ɪ.kət/
US: /ˈdel.ə.kət/

  1. Easily broken or damaged; fragile.

    1. This glass is very delicate. [ ] [ ]
    2. Handle the antique vase with care; it's incredibly delicate and could shatter easily. [ ] [ ]

  2. Needing careful handling; sensitive or subtle.

    1. This is a delicate matter. [ ] [ ]
    2. Negotiating a peace treaty requires a delicate approach to avoid escalating tensions. [ ] [ ]

  3. Fine or subtle in quality or appearance.

    1. She has delicate features. [ ] [ ]
    2. The lace on her dress had a delicate floral pattern, adding to its elegance. [ ] [ ]

  4. Relating to or causing weakness or ill health.

    1. He has a delicate constitution. [ ] [ ]
    2. The patient's delicate condition requires constant monitoring by medical staff. [ ] [ ]

Synonyms

fragile frail sensitive fine dainty exquisite
delicate adverb

  1. In a manner that requires care or sensitivity.

    1. Handle it delicately. [ ] [ ]
    2. She delicately placed the flowers in the vase, arranging them with precision. [ ] [ ]

  2. With refinement or subtlety.

    1. The food was delicately flavored. [ ] [ ]
    2. The chef delicately seasoned the dish, enhancing its natural flavors without overpowering them. [ ] [ ]

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "delicate" in English means: Easily broken or damaged; fragile., Needing careful handling; sensitive or subtle., Fine or subtle in quality or appearance., Relating to or causing weakness or ill health..

The phonetic transcription of "delicate" is /ˈdel.ɪ.kət/ in British English and /ˈdel.ə.kət/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "delicate": fragile, frail, sensitive, fine, dainty, exquisite.

Example usage of "delicate": "This glass is very delicate.". More examples on the page.