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Easily broken or damaged; fragile.
synonyms:fragiletender -
Requiring sensitive handling; fine or intricate.
synonyms:finesubtle
Derived from the Latin word 'delicatus', meaning 'delicate, luxurious, or pampered', which itself comes from 'delicia', meaning 'delight'.
Commonly used in everyday language to describe objects, feelings, or situations that require careful handling or are sensitive in nature.
The word is frequently used in both casual and formal contexts, making it quite common in everyday conversations.
She handled the delicate vase with great care to avoid breaking it.
The artist used delicate brush strokes to create a beautiful painting.
His delicate feelings were easily hurt by harsh criticism.
The word 'delicate' paints a picture of fragility and sensitivity, evoking the image of something that requires gentle care. Its roots trace back to the Latin 'delicatus', which speaks to luxury and pampering, suggesting that delicacy is not just about fragility but also about beauty and finesse. You might find it describing everything from a fine piece of china to the complexities of human emotions. So next time you encounter something that seems to need a gentle touch, remember that 'delicate' is the perfect word to capture its essence!