adjective
delicate
DEHL-ih-kuht
adjective
1
Easily damaged and needing careful handling.
"The vase is extremely delicate, so wrap it well before shipping."
2
Requiring tact or care because of its sensitive nature.
"Discussing the layoffs is a delicate subject in the office right now."
3
Fine or subtle in detail, texture, or flavor.
"The dish had a delicate balance of ginger and lime."
How to Use Delicate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFragile, easily upset, or needing gentle, careful treatment — whether an object, a topic, or a flavor.
Common pairings
delicate balance
delicate situation
delicate fabric
delicate flavor
Word Forms
more delicate comparative, delicater comparative, delicates plural, most delicate superlative, delicatest superlative
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The vase is extremely _____, so wrap it well before shipping.