— daintily , adv. — daintiness , n.
/dayn"tee/ , adj., daintier, daintiest , n. , pl. dainties .
adj.
1. of delicate beauty; exquisite: a dainty lace handkerchief.
2. pleasing to the taste and, often, temptingly served or delicate; delicious: dainty pastries.
3. of delicate discrimination or taste; particular; fastidious: a dainty eater.
4. overly particular; finicky.
n.
5. something delicious to the taste; a delicacy.
[ 1175-1225; ME deinte worthiness, happiness, delicacy deint ( i ) e ) dignitat- (s. of dignitas ); see DIGNITY ]
Syn. 1. fine. See delicate. 2. tender, delectable. 3. See particular. 4. overnice. 5. tidbit, sweetmeat.