The meaning of DELICATE is pleasing to the senses. How to use delicate in a sentence. Synonym Discussion of Delicate.

DELICATE definition: 1. needing careful treatment, especially because easily damaged: 2. needing to be done carefully…. Learn more.

Definition of delicate adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.

Delicate, dainty, exquisite imply beauty such as belongs to rich surroundings or which needs careful treatment. Delicate, used of an object, suggests fragility, small size, and often very fine …

Define delicate. delicate synonyms, delicate pronunciation, delicate translation, English dictionary definition of delicate. adj. 1. Pleasing to the senses, especially in a subtle way: a delicate flavor; a …

Oct 27, 2025 · delicate (plural delicates) A delicate item of clothing, especially underwear or lingerie.

There are 32 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word delicate, 11 of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

You use delicate to describe a situation, problem, matter, or discussion that needs to be dealt with carefully and sensitively in order to avoid upsetting things or offending people.

Some common synonyms of delicate are choice, dainty, elegant, exquisite, and rare. While all these words mean "having qualities that appeal to a cultivated taste," delicate implies exquisiteness, …

DELICATE definition: 1. soft, light, or gentle: 2. easy to damage or break: 3. needing to be dealt with very…. Learn more.