/ ˈdelɪkət; NAmE / adjective
1.
easily damaged or broken
SYN fragile :
delicate china teacups
The eye is one of the most delicate organs of the body.
the delicate ecological balance of the rainforest
Babies have very delicate skin.
a cool wash cycle for delicate fabrics
2.
( of a person ) not strong and easily becoming ill / sick :
a delicate child / constitution
3.
small and having a beautiful shape or appearance :
his delicate hands
4.
made or formed in a very careful and detailed way :
the delicate mechanisms of a clock
5.
showing or needing skilful, careful or sensitive treatment :
I admired your delicate handling of the situation.
a delicate problem
The delicate surgical operation took five hours.
6.
( of colours, flavours and smells ) light and pleasant; not strong
SYN subtle :
a delicate fragrance / flavour
a river scene painted in delicate watercolours
► deli·cate·ly adverb :
He stepped delicately over the broken glass.
delicately balanced flavours
••
WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English (in the sense delightful, charming ): from French délicat or Latin delicatus , of unknown origin. Senses also expressed in Middle English (now obsolete) include voluptuous , self-indulgent , fastidious , and effeminate .