ˈdelɪkɪt adj. 1 a fine in
texture or
structure;
soft,
slender, or
slight. b of
exquisite quality or
workmanship. c (of colour)
subtle or subdued;
not bright. d subtle,
hard to
appreciate. 2 (of a person)
easily injured;
susceptible to
illness. 3 a requiring
careful handling;
tricky (a delicate situation). b (of an instrument)
highly sensitive. 4
deft (a delicate touch). 5 (of a person) avoiding
the immodest or
offensive. 6 (esp. of actions)
considerate. 7 (of food)
dainty;
suitable for an invalid. øin a delicate
condition archaic pregnant. øødelicately adv. delicateness n. [ME f. OF delicat or L delicatus, of unkn. orig.]