n.
Pronunciation: ' de-li-k ə -s ē
Function: noun
Inflected Form: plural -cies
Date: 14th century
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