delicate — easily broken, damaged, or requiring careful handling
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: easily broken, damaged, or requiring careful handling
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈdelɪkət/
Example Sentences
- My grandmother's china is so delicate that even a sneeze might break it.
- The chef prepared a delicate sauce that complemented the fish perfectly.
- He handled the delicate negotiation like a surgeon with butterfingers.
delicate
ADJECTIVE[/ˈdelɪkət/]
easily broken, damaged, or requiring careful handling

The child carefully held the delicate butterfly.

Everyone moved slowly around the delicate kitten.

They faced a delicate situation, communicated carefully, and learned to appreciate one another.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'delicatus' meaning 'soft, tender, or dainty,' possibly derived from 'deliciae' meaning 'delight' or 'pleasure.' The word entered English through Old French in the 14th century.
Breakdown
delicatus (Latin: soft, tender) + -ate (adjective suffix) = delicate
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My grandmother's china is so delicate that even a sneeze might break it.”
“The chef prepared a delicate sauce that complemented the fish perfectly.”
“He handled the delicate negotiation like a surgeon with butterfingers.”
“The delicate flower petals felt like silk between her fingers.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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