dainty
4 synonyms and 0 antonyms for dainty, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adjective — Delicate, small, and pretty in an elegant way.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use dainty
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Old French deintié, going back to Latin dignitatem — the same root that gives us "dignity."
Full origin of dainty →Frequently asked questions
What does “dainty” mean?
The word “dainty” means delicate, small, and pretty in an elegant way. In plain terms, small, delicate, and elegant — or, for a person, fussy about what they'll eat or touch.
How do you pronounce “dainty”?
“Dainty” is pronounced DAYN-tee (/ˈdeɪnti/ in IPA).
How do you use “dainty” in a sentence?
Here is “dainty” used in a sentence: “She wore dainty lace gloves to the wedding.”
What part of speech is “dainty”?
Depending on how it is used, “dainty” can be an adjective and a noun.
Where does the word “dainty” come from?
The word “dainty” comes from Latin. From Old French deintié, going back to Latin dignitatem — the same root that gives us "dignity.".
How many meanings does “dainty” have?
“Dainty” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: delicate, small, and pretty in an elegant way.