Dictionary

delicacy

noun del·i·ca·cy \ˈde-li-kə-sē\
plural del·i·ca·cies

Definition of DELICACY

1
obsolete
a :  the quality or state of being luxurious
b :  indulgence
2
:  something pleasing to eat that is considered rare or luxurious <considered caviar a delicacy>
3
a :  the quality or state of being dainty :  fineness <lace of great delicacy>
b :  frailty 1 <the delicacy of his health>
4
:  fineness or subtle expressiveness of touch (as in painting or music)
5
a :  precise and refined perception and discrimination
b :  extreme sensitivity :  precision <an electronic instrument of great delicacy>
6
a :  refined sensibility in feeling or conduct
b :  the quality or state of being squeamish
7
:  the quality or state of requiring delicate handling
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First Known Use of DELICACY

14th century

Related to DELICACY

DELICACY Defined for Kids

delicacy

noun del·i·ca·cy \ˈde-li-kə-sē\
plural del·i·ca·cies

Definition of DELICACY for Kids

1
:  something pleasing to eat that is rare or a luxury
2
:  fineness of structure <She wore lace of great delicacy.>
3
:  weakness of body :  frailty
4
:  a need for careful treatment <This is a situation of great delicacy.>
5
:  consideration for the feelings of others <She had the delicacy to ignore my blunder.>

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Next Word in the Dictionary: delicate (adjective)Previous Word in the Dictionary: delibleAll Words Near: delicacy
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