I. ekˈskwizə̇t, ˈekˌskwiz-, ˈekskwə̇z-, ikˈskwiz-, usu -zə̇d.+V adjective
Etymology: Middle English exquisit, from Latin exquisitus, from past participle of exquirere to search out, seek, from ex- ex- (I) + -quirere (from quaerere to seek, gain, obtain, ask)
1.
a. : carefully selected or sought out : ingeniously devised : choice , recherché
I have given her the best advice, … making the most exquisite moral reflections — but to no purpose — Iris Origo
b. obsolete : farfetched , affected
2. archaic : careful or exact in working or operation : accurate , nice , exact
3.
a. : marked by flawless craftsmanship or by beautiful, ingenious, delicate, or elaborate execution
Sung vases and exquisite lacquers — James Hilton
an exquisite cameo
an exquisite portrait
b. : marked by nicest discrimination, keenest appreciation, deepest sensitivity, or most subtle understanding
a far more keen and exquisite observer than her brother — J.L.Lowes
an exquisite choice
an exquisite critic
: marked or perceptible by or calling for keenest sensitivity
an exquisite sense of hearing
exquisite variations in color
c. : transcending and superlative : marked by acute discrimination and selection, faultless execution, and maximum effectiveness
paints with exquisite art the charm of the deep country — John Buchan
the exquisite transparency and delicate finish of her work — P.E.More
d. : accomplished , finished , perfected
an exquisite gentleman
4.
a. : affording or accompanied by keen delight, rapture, or pleasure especially through beauty, fitness, delicacy, or perfection : delightful , delectable
the night-blooming cereus … an exquisite white blossom with a spicy fragrance — American Guide Series: Arizona
exquisite brushwork
b. : perfect and unrelieved : transcending , acute , extreme , consummate
the most exquisite pitch of joy and happiness to which life could thrill — Jack London
an exquisite pain shot through his arm
wondered at the exquisite stupidity of the hearers — S.M.Crothers
c. : marked by uncommon, esoteric, or precious appeal
the exquisite , the finely drawn, the rich trappings of legend — Sara H. Hay
Synonyms: see choice
II. noun
( -s )
: one who is overnice in dress or ornament
young exquisites, perfumed and foppish