Definition of delicate in English:

delicate

adjective ˈdɛlɪkətˈdɛlɪkət

1Very fine in texture or structure; of intricate workmanship or quality.
a delicate lace shawl
Example sentencesExamples
- Her delicate bone structure and elegant grace would always turn heads.
- When at the click of a button you have the world on your screen, why bother debating the intricate and delicate fabrics our lives?
- Some of the more succulent plants supported more snails than leaves; every large leaf was eaten down to a tracery of veins as delicate as broekie lace.
- Where the inner part is smaller, the meshwork structure is more delicate and is not interwoven tightly enough to convey the spiral nature of its structure.
- A delicate white lace shawl rests around her shoulders, draping down the length of her body.
- We worked in poor light, but were fascinated with the intricate pattern of the delicate growth.
- Forget all that nonsense about looking like an orange and think of your skin as the finest, most delicate fabric that you've got to wear for the rest of your life.
- The delicate intricacy of the leaves provided inspiration for motifs in decoration, appearing on tiles and wrought iron, china, glass and linen.
- When the characters do not click, the delicate structure of the conversation unravels.
- Smith opens this space before the viewer, as if it's at our feet; renders its old textures in delicate detail; infuses it with light.
- The crinkles in the gold leaf highlight the delicate texture of lace, the mottled surface of a pine plank table, or the peeling walls.
- Many of his breads are given 24 to 48 hours to rise on their own, developing precious flavors and delicate textures.
- Your ears are connected to your nose and then to the sinuses by narrow passageways - delicate, intricate structures with a remarkable ability to recover after an infection such as a cold.
- The timbre and quality of its resonance had a lingering delicate quality, which communicated nuances of infinite variety.
- I think the general pattern is some kind of injury, whether that's a viral infection, a toxin, some kind of insult to very delicate structures in the brain.
- The bride looked stunning in an ivory and gold raw silk dress of Irish design and carried a bouquet of delicate cream roses.
- Their trunks, though smaller, had delicate and fine traceries of bark, showing an age far beyond their size.
- Metallic threads usually are not suited for knit fabrics as the knit's uneven texture may break the delicate threads.
- In lingerie, this is expressed by delicate shapes in diaphanous fabrics which flutter around the body.
- Fine, delicate black lines delineate androgynous figures, heads turned heavenward, mouths open.
Synonyms
fine, exquisite, intricate, dainty, airy, elegant, graceful
flimsy, gauzy, filmy, floaty, gossamer, diaphanous, chiffony, silky, wispy, thin, insubstantial, papery
1. 1.1 (of colour) subtle and subdued.
  delicate pastel shades
  Example sentencesExamples
  A faint aroma of the hot earth cooled by the first rains wafted in and filled the room with its delicate fragrance.
  Precision need not restrict, it can lead to delicate nuances and subtle bloom.
  Of the 25 paintings exhibited, most use delicate colors such as pastels, soft browns and soft greens.
  His most characteristic works are abstracts painted in light, translucent colours, often delicate shades of blue.
  Debussy made as much use of silence as of sound to express emotion, and in the orchestration each instrument was given a delicate colour of its own to blend into the painting.
  The colours are dominated by delicate pastels and powdery shades of white, sand, cream and beige.
  It smelled wonderful - a delicate fragrance lost between the natural perfumes of the world.
  Its ultra-fresh, delicate fragrance draws on cardamom, citron, geranium and coriander.
  The tea from Darjeeling with its characteristic delicate colour and aroma is called the ‘champagne of teas’.
  His interiors combine domes, columned screens, and apses with classically derived surface patterns in delicate colours.
  And at winter dusk, sky and snow are bathed in delicate colours which linger for hours.
  If you look at apparel, women are wearing more delicate colors, and pastels go along with the retro movements.
  And finally the most delicate colour on the map is also the scarcest.
  For the little pears it's totally worth it because I don't need a whole lot and the colour is so delicate.
  The blouse was a light, delicate shade of pink, with a dark flower pattern covering it.
  The brow pencil in Soft Brown is a delicate colour and blended well when it was brushed.
  He also missed her warm body and the delicate fragrance of her perfume.
  Light yellow varieties, many shades of pink and delicate pastels need full sun to bring out the colorings.
  The raspberry vodka is photosensitive so, in contrast to their other flavours, they bottle it in dark glass so it keeps its delicate colour.
  This has a pale hay colour, with a delicate, attractive nose that smells of damp elderflower and freshly peeled apple.
  Synonyms
  subtle, soft, subdued, muted
  pastel, pale, light
2. 1.2 (of food or drink) subtly and pleasantly flavoured.
  a delicate, sweet flavour
  Example sentencesExamples
  Strawberry jam and lemon curd are probably clumsy words to describe the flavours in such a delicate wine.
  Well done toast on the nose gives way to delicate strawberry and raspberry flavours with hazelnut to finish.
  If you describe the show as a delicate cheese souffle - you like it?
  Sauvignon blanc came from Sancerre, in France, was light and dry and tasted minerally and crisp with delicate fruit.
  The spotted crab, known for the colorful blue streaks on its shell, as well as its sweet and delicate meat, is famous.
  It was rich and its delicate herb flavouring worked well with the chicken.
  The intense flavors of the cheese and veg overpower the delicate meat.
  It had a delicate tomato flavour with a touch of the sea.
  The delicate sauce enhances, without overwhelming, the sweet freshness that makes lobster so appealing.
  A fruity, off-dry style from the southerly Pfalz region, this comparatively delicate wine has a pleasantly spicy undertone that would work brilliantly with this dish.
  Villagers wear rice straw sandals, and the whole nation unwinds daily on a delicate rice wine, sake.
  Greens, carrots, and delicate herbs grow here, protected from deluges.
  A succulent dish, it was served with a delicate sauce comprising olive oil, garlic and citrus juice.
  We spent New Year's Eve with some friends who gave us at dinner (among much else) a gorgeous, delicate soup made from Jerusalem artichokes and cream.
  The shelves creak with bottles of exotic oils, potions and elixirs, and the minibar is crammed with delicate liqueurs and Belgian chocolates.
  This makes the delicate Biscuit Rose de Reims the ideal dipping companion of a cup of Champagne, and the perfect biscuit to use in a charlotte, in place of the classic ladyfingers.
  Nudge into a delicate dish of taramasalata made with fish roe and strong garlic dip.
  The plump crustaceans were cooked only until tender, then served up in a delicate tomato, wine and feta cheese sauce.
  This luminescent Italian rose has a sweetness on the nose and delicate spice on the palate that begs for a mouthful of chilled raspberries and a touch of vanilla ice-cream.
  Courgettes or zucchini lightly cooked in butter are also a delicate dish.
2Easily broken or damaged; fragile.
delicate china
Example sentencesExamples
- The best ceramic artworks are delicate, but not fragile, and utilitarian, but not dull.
- It's not quite the done thing here to rip it open on the spot, but it turned out to be this incredibly refined and delicate china tea-pot.
- They were sometimes so small they could fit in an adults palm, their skin was always delicate, their lungs fragile.
- Antonio has produced ceramic containers to symbolise this, the containers are at once delicate and fragile, battered and worn, but also sturdy and durable.
- They must ‘handle the Koran as if it were a fragile piece of delicate art.’
- Most of the works were done on silk or rice paper, both very fragile and delicate materials.
- Chemicals from tobacco smoke get into your bloodstream and can damage the delicate blood vessels inside your eye.
- The lungs are also delicate and easily damaged if the ventilation is too aggressive.
- Wire frame glasses look great with any outfit, the only disadvantage is that they may be a little more fragile and delicate than plastic glasses.
- Whatever you do avoid touching the gills as they are very delicate organs that are easily damaged.
- Berries, for example, are very delicate and fragile.
- He was frightened to move unless he disturbed the stillness, unless he shattered its delicate fragility.
- Then he carefully pulls the book from the shelf, cradling its delicate pages, its fragile spine in his palms with the same tenderness lavished on a newborn baby.
- Mouth injuries, such as biting the inside of your lip or even brushing too hard and damaging the delicate lining inside your mouth, also seem to bring on canker sores.
- Never mind sir, the hit didn't damage any of your delicate equipment.
- If performed incorrectly, the stress of teasing or backcombing hair can damage delicate strands.
- Use a soft sponge, cotton cloth or cotton balls and moisturizing cream to avoid damaging the delicate tissue around your eyes.
- Luckily, the bull also turned right towards the furniture section rather than the more delicate china and porcelain.
- Corals and other reef organisms are extremely delicate and thus easily damaged.
- The body is made up of multiple delicate tissues, the most delicate of which is the brain, and taking any drug damages the most delicate tissues first.
Synonyms
fragile, breakable, easily broken/damaged, frail, frangible
eggshell
1. 2.1 Susceptible to illness or adverse conditions.
  his delicate health
  Example sentencesExamples
  Plants of a seemingly delicate nature are almost overpowered by immense tropical-looking foliage.
  The emerging plants are delicate, so continuous moisture is essential.
  These are usually the more delicate plants such as Clematis viticella, which are best with an annual light prune followed by hard pruning every ten years.
  This adventure proved too much for my delicate health, and I soon developed a severe cold.
  We speak of someone as in delicate health, for example, which means that he or she has to take precautions that ordinary healthy people can disregard.
  We always conjectured that having no male role model, and this constant shifting at such an early age, probably left Helen a rather fragile, mentally delicate creature.
  Wildlife lovers in Cheshire have drawn up plans to protect the county's animals and delicate plants from future environmental threats.
  And I never did interview her because I was aware of her delicate health and I wanted to do it properly - to spend an afternoon with her.
  But Martineau was in her sixties and in delicate health.
  It is obvious that the market is still in delicate health, but it is important to distinguish between old scars and new wounds.
  Most slugs eat decaying vegetation, but readily switch to young or delicate plants, feeding on the leaves, stems, roots and tubers.
  So forget the scary stories about temperamental, delicate plants.
  His total commitment to academic work together with rather delicate health meant that he was little involved with the social life of the school.
  After resigning because of delicate health in August of 1918, she was honorably discharged.
  Of delicate health, he was constantly ill and in pain in the last ten years of his life.
  My Mama is expecting a baby very shortly and she is in delicate health.
  He was delicate in health and of a nervous disposition, but this is hardly apparent from his work, which uses colour in a bold, unnaturalistic manner echoing the Fauves.
  The Arctic's delicate tundra plants support Large populations of animals such as caribou and provide nesting habitat for huge numbers of birds.
  He had always been in delicate health, suffering even in his youth from migraine…
  Mary and her girls were aware of her distraction, and seemed to think it might be the result of delicate health, for they took to often encouraging her outdoors to get fresh air.
  Although there was only a year of difference between their ages, she was small and petite, not fragile, but seemingly delicate.
  His health was delicate and his studies were in consequence often interrupted.
  The plants are incredibly delicate and of great botanical value, which explains why the house isn't normally open for the public to view.
  Synonyms
  sickly, in poor health, unhealthy, valetudinarian, frail, feeble, weak, weakly, debilitated
  unwell, infirm, ailing, poorly
  Northern English informal nesh
2. 2.2 (of a state or condition) easily upset or affected.
  owls have a delicate balance with their habitat
  Example sentencesExamples
  The wonderful team of nurses cared not only for Lydia, but the delicate state of the family at this time.
  Instead, it captures the delicate state of a country at its most vulnerable.
  Some have argued that the timing of the Presbyterians' decision will undermine the delicate peace process now underway.
  But these states are so delicate they are liable to be destroyed by background noise.
  To change position was to upset the delicate balance.
  By the 14th century, there were a number of forces which upset this delicate balance.
  And the coast is our most fragile and delicate environment.
  A law banning religious hatred will begin to unravel the delicate balances on which freedom and democracy depend.
  Our ancestors understood this delicate balance and went to great lengths not to upset it.
  It has upset the delicate balance of life and death.
  They also say it will damage rare and delicate upland habitats; hinder the local economy by deterring tourists; and dramatically devaluing nearby properties.
  You have the power and opportunity to show your true colours and minimize the damage to a delicate ecosystem.
  This is a delicate equilibrium balance that can easily be ruined.
  As you would expect the ferry crossing was not enjoyable and everyone was in a delicate state.
  However, the Minister stressed that negotiations were at a delicate state at this point.
  This new law upsets the delicate balance which the courts had tried to achieve during the 1990s.
  Upon seeing such, I recoiled, remembering her delicate state of mind when it came to men.
  It also moved the region from a delicate peace to almost inevitable conflict.
  I kept it from you because I didn't want to upset you in your delicate condition.
  The present administration is a coalition reflecting a delicate balance between various constituencies.
3Requiring sensitive or careful handling.
delicate negotiations
Example sentencesExamples
- This group does deal with very delicate political and diplomatic issues.
- This movie takes a very mature and sophisticated approach to a delicate subject, offering no explanation as to why bad things can happen to good people.
- Clearly, this is a delicate subject, Laurelle thought to herself.
- As to who really controls these hostages, this is all now part of another very delicate situation, political and diplomatic reality.
- She never really knew how to handle delicate situations requiring tact and sincere honesty.
- Succession planning is too delicate a business for such an approach.
- If this inflames delicate office politics, so much the better.
- It's often hard to find the ‘right time’ to approach someone about a delicate issue, as well as being difficult to say the words you need to say.
- We'd like to post more excerpts, but with the international political situation so delicate right now, it could tip us over the brink.
- Well, there s land acquisition (always an issue requiring delicate handling) and the cost of paying all those consultants.
- Addressing a smear is one of the hardest, trickiest, most delicate things in politics.
- The first thing that strikes anybody is the extraordinary courage and unswerving neutrality with which she handles such a delicate issue.
- You don't seem to understand how delicate your situation is.
- It is a delicate situation, politically, psychologically, socially.
- Our readers have suggested the best ways to handle a delicate issue such as outlandish dressing by students in colleges.
- Be human in your approach to this delicate situation and the employee will be that much more willing to listen to you.
- She preferred the simple, direct approach to delicate topics.
- I am glad to see you have enough interest in the fascinatingly challenging and yet delicate game of Diplomacy to spend some time to read about it.
- That would be the right basis for the success of this new delicate political panoply.
- So certainly the government is watching this very closely to see what influence this would have on the delicate politics here.
Synonyms
difficult, tricky, sensitive, ticklish, awkward, problematic, problematical, touchy, prickly, controversial, emotive, embarrassing
informal sticky, dicey
1. 3.1 Tactful and considerate.
  a delicate approach is needed
  Example sentencesExamples
  The film takes a delicate and patient approach toward its characters.
  Though he has a high school education, he has been trained to be a specialist here, and he considers his job as delicate as disarming a live bomb.
  Out of a crass-sounding approach has come a delicate and innovative solution.
  This was no simple affair of the heart, but also a decision which entailed delicate political considerations.
  I think its fair to ask why the murder of a wife is treated in a sympathetic, delicate manner while the murder of a man in a pub is dramatised.
  Each requires a certain amount of respectful, delicate, thoughtful mountain climbing.
  Hollywood is a place where nuanced language and delicate diplomacy is needed in offering up a critique of your betters.
  It is a very delicate process of being politically active, because taking seriously the people you are involved with is a key concern, without romanticising them.
  There has been a really delicate approach to this matter.
  And later, a time of delicate diplomacy in the Middle East.
  Synonyms
  careful, considerate, sensitive
  tactful, diplomatic, discreet, gentle, kid-glove, softly-softly
2. 3.2 Skilful and finely judged; deft.
  his delicate ball-playing skills
  Example sentencesExamples
  He preferred to finish the marble himself, and his delicate skill is apparent in two marble figures.
  They fought with the cold methodical precision of a toolmaker and the delicate skill of a highwire circus performer.
  He possesses that deft and delicate touch that can transform interesting prose into mesmerising poetry.
  It takes a steady hand and delicate skill to push a wire safely into a human heart.
  He reaches out a hand and with one deft, delicate dart of the fingers rotates my book to face him.
  In sport, delicate skills can plummet fast and far.
  His movements were very quick, yet delicate, showing his skill and familiarity with the knife and the task.
  He exhibited more delicate skills when he headed home Hamilton's second goal.
  I am learning the delicate skill of the contestant interview.
  The ladies are developing their newly acquired skills in the delicate art of egg decoration.
  Synonyms
  deft, dexterous, skilled, skilful, expert, finely judged, adept, adroit, neat, slick
  informal nifty
3. 3.3 (of an instrument) highly sensitive.
  Example sentencesExamples
  They gently transferred each minuscule mite to the host bee via the most delicate instrument available: an eyelash mounted to a small stick.
  At the far left sat three of the last five probes, boxed and stored carefully to protect their delicate instruments.
  The requirements for accommodating the delicate optical instruments and other scientific apparatus determined the general elevation and ground plan of the building.
  People hurried through the walls, apparently careless of the delicate instruments everywhere.
  ‘Leave us to work - this probe is delicate and we need to proceed with a lot of caution,’ he said.
  Anyway, it was very exiting to dig with the delicate tools.
  A gesture, and a delicate knife was in his fingers.
  There are still layers of noise and sonic adventurousness, but now it is far more subtle in the mix, applied with a delicate brush rather than a trowel.
  It measures 2.7 metres across and is built like a shellfish: its hard shell designed to protect its delicate instruments from the heat of entry into the atmosphere.
  The delicate tools used for extrusion of aluminium or plastic profiles are therefore often polished manually.
  Oetzi's corpse was removed from the ice, not by archaeologists, with delicate tools, but by the local mountain rescue team, with a steam hammer.
  Deftly extending the delicate instrument, the Duchess began scanning the landscape before her.
  The mind on which we rely is itself an extremely delicate instrument.
  To describe this as a delicate instrument might be inaccurate, if the term were used in relation to other electrical instruments of extreme sensibility.
  There are many small and delicate Instruments that can get caught in the bottom of the sterilization pan.
  Two antennas will allow the spacecraft to communicate with Earth in any configuration, always having the side hosting delicate instruments away from the Sun.
  His eyes lit up as the gears shifted, and beneath the glass appeared a long, delicate needle.
  Like a delicate instrument; it records all the little agitations of seeing and being.
  These rather delicate tools may have been used as small chisels or planes, perhaps for wood or bone carving or bark/fiber removal.
  Maintenance instruments are so delicate they have to remain in the shop's controlled environment.
  Synonyms
  sensitive, precision, precise, accurate, exact

noun ˈdɛlɪkətˈdɛlɪkət

informal

A delicate fabric or garment.
as modifier the delicates cycle of a washing machine
Example sentencesExamples
- Egads, what about all those delicates hanging on the line?
- They've developed new appliances to handle delicates, dry cleaning, a fancy ironing station, and of course they've redesigned the old workhorse washer and dryer.
- General sorting categories are whites, light colors, bright or deep-colored materials, permanent press, delicates, and clothes for the dry cleaners.
- So instead I hand-washed some delicates and got caught up with the ironing.
- It wasn't too long until I discovered her delicates (bras, panties, aerobic outfits, and make-up).
- I bet she'll be willing to part with her delicates - for the right price, that is - if she can have another pair made just like them.
- Once you have made your choice of delicates, you throw the rest of your clothes on and go about your day.
- Just make sure that my delicates are washed by hand.

Phrases

in a delicate condition

archaic Pregnant.
Example sentencesExamples
- To her dismay, she soon found herself in a delicate condition and was obliged to marry George.
- The timeline suggests, although I don't have proof, that she may have been in a delicate condition while she was at Yale.
- I try to help out around the house, but the family insists that I am in a delicate condition and must rest.
- And don't be shy about telling someone who has bad breath, noxious perfume or cigarette smells on them that you're in a delicate condition and need some fresh air.
- If it wasn't for the fact that you are in a delicate condition, I would have tickled you mercilessly for that last comment.
Synonyms
expecting a baby, having a baby, with a baby on the way, having a child, expectant, carrying a child

Derivatives

delicateness

noun

Thematically, the film centers on the delicateness of life.
Example sentencesExamples
- He was tall and thin almost to the point of delicateness, but he didn't look like a beanpole, and I don't think I would have described him as lanky either.
- It has a delicateness of tone that recalls Debussy.
- They were definitely a man's step, not the same delicateness of a woman, but they were definitely muffled, it sounded like a man who naturally walked silently.
- It was fantastic and different, somehow managing to bring out the delicateness of fish and the heartiness of stew at the same time.

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'.

Definition of delicate in US English:

delicate

adjectiveˈdɛlɪkətˈdelikət

1Very fine in texture or structure; of intricate workmanship or quality.
a spider's web, strong yet delicate
Example sentencesExamples
- I think the general pattern is some kind of injury, whether that's a viral infection, a toxin, some kind of insult to very delicate structures in the brain.
- Forget all that nonsense about looking like an orange and think of your skin as the finest, most delicate fabric that you've got to wear for the rest of your life.
- Some of the more succulent plants supported more snails than leaves; every large leaf was eaten down to a tracery of veins as delicate as broekie lace.
- When at the click of a button you have the world on your screen, why bother debating the intricate and delicate fabrics our lives?
- Their trunks, though smaller, had delicate and fine traceries of bark, showing an age far beyond their size.
- When the characters do not click, the delicate structure of the conversation unravels.
- We worked in poor light, but were fascinated with the intricate pattern of the delicate growth.
- Smith opens this space before the viewer, as if it's at our feet; renders its old textures in delicate detail; infuses it with light.
- Her delicate bone structure and elegant grace would always turn heads.
- Where the inner part is smaller, the meshwork structure is more delicate and is not interwoven tightly enough to convey the spiral nature of its structure.
- The timbre and quality of its resonance had a lingering delicate quality, which communicated nuances of infinite variety.
- Fine, delicate black lines delineate androgynous figures, heads turned heavenward, mouths open.
- The delicate intricacy of the leaves provided inspiration for motifs in decoration, appearing on tiles and wrought iron, china, glass and linen.
- A delicate white lace shawl rests around her shoulders, draping down the length of her body.
- Metallic threads usually are not suited for knit fabrics as the knit's uneven texture may break the delicate threads.
- The crinkles in the gold leaf highlight the delicate texture of lace, the mottled surface of a pine plank table, or the peeling walls.
- In lingerie, this is expressed by delicate shapes in diaphanous fabrics which flutter around the body.
- The bride looked stunning in an ivory and gold raw silk dress of Irish design and carried a bouquet of delicate cream roses.
- Many of his breads are given 24 to 48 hours to rise on their own, developing precious flavors and delicate textures.
- Your ears are connected to your nose and then to the sinuses by narrow passageways - delicate, intricate structures with a remarkable ability to recover after an infection such as a cold.
Synonyms
fine, exquisite, intricate, dainty, airy, elegant, graceful
1. 1.1 (of a color or a scent) subtle and subdued.
  delicate pastel shades
  a delicate fragrance
  Example sentencesExamples
  His most characteristic works are abstracts painted in light, translucent colours, often delicate shades of blue.
  It smelled wonderful - a delicate fragrance lost between the natural perfumes of the world.
  Light yellow varieties, many shades of pink and delicate pastels need full sun to bring out the colorings.
  Its ultra-fresh, delicate fragrance draws on cardamom, citron, geranium and coriander.
  Precision need not restrict, it can lead to delicate nuances and subtle bloom.
  And finally the most delicate colour on the map is also the scarcest.
  For the little pears it's totally worth it because I don't need a whole lot and the colour is so delicate.
  His interiors combine domes, columned screens, and apses with classically derived surface patterns in delicate colours.
  He also missed her warm body and the delicate fragrance of her perfume.
  The colours are dominated by delicate pastels and powdery shades of white, sand, cream and beige.
  And at winter dusk, sky and snow are bathed in delicate colours which linger for hours.
  The raspberry vodka is photosensitive so, in contrast to their other flavours, they bottle it in dark glass so it keeps its delicate colour.
  The brow pencil in Soft Brown is a delicate colour and blended well when it was brushed.
  Debussy made as much use of silence as of sound to express emotion, and in the orchestration each instrument was given a delicate colour of its own to blend into the painting.
  A faint aroma of the hot earth cooled by the first rains wafted in and filled the room with its delicate fragrance.
  The blouse was a light, delicate shade of pink, with a dark flower pattern covering it.
  If you look at apparel, women are wearing more delicate colors, and pastels go along with the retro movements.
  The tea from Darjeeling with its characteristic delicate colour and aroma is called the ‘champagne of teas’.
  This has a pale hay colour, with a delicate, attractive nose that smells of damp elderflower and freshly peeled apple.
  Of the 25 paintings exhibited, most use delicate colors such as pastels, soft browns and soft greens.
  Synonyms
  subtle, soft, subdued, muted
2. 1.2 (of food or drink) subtly and pleasantly flavored.
  a delicate cream sauce
  Example sentencesExamples
  Nudge into a delicate dish of taramasalata made with fish roe and strong garlic dip.
  Well done toast on the nose gives way to delicate strawberry and raspberry flavours with hazelnut to finish.
  Courgettes or zucchini lightly cooked in butter are also a delicate dish.
  Greens, carrots, and delicate herbs grow here, protected from deluges.
  The plump crustaceans were cooked only until tender, then served up in a delicate tomato, wine and feta cheese sauce.
  The delicate sauce enhances, without overwhelming, the sweet freshness that makes lobster so appealing.
  Sauvignon blanc came from Sancerre, in France, was light and dry and tasted minerally and crisp with delicate fruit.
  It was rich and its delicate herb flavouring worked well with the chicken.
  The shelves creak with bottles of exotic oils, potions and elixirs, and the minibar is crammed with delicate liqueurs and Belgian chocolates.
  Villagers wear rice straw sandals, and the whole nation unwinds daily on a delicate rice wine, sake.
  A succulent dish, it was served with a delicate sauce comprising olive oil, garlic and citrus juice.
  A fruity, off-dry style from the southerly Pfalz region, this comparatively delicate wine has a pleasantly spicy undertone that would work brilliantly with this dish.
  It had a delicate tomato flavour with a touch of the sea.
  We spent New Year's Eve with some friends who gave us at dinner (among much else) a gorgeous, delicate soup made from Jerusalem artichokes and cream.
  The intense flavors of the cheese and veg overpower the delicate meat.
  This luminescent Italian rose has a sweetness on the nose and delicate spice on the palate that begs for a mouthful of chilled raspberries and a touch of vanilla ice-cream.
  If you describe the show as a delicate cheese souffle - you like it?
  This makes the delicate Biscuit Rose de Reims the ideal dipping companion of a cup of Champagne, and the perfect biscuit to use in a charlotte, in place of the classic ladyfingers.
  The spotted crab, known for the colorful blue streaks on its shell, as well as its sweet and delicate meat, is famous.
  Strawberry jam and lemon curd are probably clumsy words to describe the flavours in such a delicate wine.
2Easily broken or damaged; fragile.
delicate china
Example sentencesExamples
- The best ceramic artworks are delicate, but not fragile, and utilitarian, but not dull.
- Whatever you do avoid touching the gills as they are very delicate organs that are easily damaged.
- It's not quite the done thing here to rip it open on the spot, but it turned out to be this incredibly refined and delicate china tea-pot.
- They must ‘handle the Koran as if it were a fragile piece of delicate art.’
- Then he carefully pulls the book from the shelf, cradling its delicate pages, its fragile spine in his palms with the same tenderness lavished on a newborn baby.
- Antonio has produced ceramic containers to symbolise this, the containers are at once delicate and fragile, battered and worn, but also sturdy and durable.
- Wire frame glasses look great with any outfit, the only disadvantage is that they may be a little more fragile and delicate than plastic glasses.
- Never mind sir, the hit didn't damage any of your delicate equipment.
- Mouth injuries, such as biting the inside of your lip or even brushing too hard and damaging the delicate lining inside your mouth, also seem to bring on canker sores.
- The body is made up of multiple delicate tissues, the most delicate of which is the brain, and taking any drug damages the most delicate tissues first.
- Most of the works were done on silk or rice paper, both very fragile and delicate materials.
- Corals and other reef organisms are extremely delicate and thus easily damaged.
- They were sometimes so small they could fit in an adults palm, their skin was always delicate, their lungs fragile.
- Chemicals from tobacco smoke get into your bloodstream and can damage the delicate blood vessels inside your eye.
- Use a soft sponge, cotton cloth or cotton balls and moisturizing cream to avoid damaging the delicate tissue around your eyes.
- Berries, for example, are very delicate and fragile.
- If performed incorrectly, the stress of teasing or backcombing hair can damage delicate strands.
- The lungs are also delicate and easily damaged if the ventilation is too aggressive.
- He was frightened to move unless he disturbed the stillness, unless he shattered its delicate fragility.
- Luckily, the bull also turned right towards the furniture section rather than the more delicate china and porcelain.
Synonyms
fragile, breakable, easily broken, easily damaged, frail, frangible
1. 2.1 (of a person, animal, or plant) susceptible to illness or adverse conditions.
  his delicate health
  Example sentencesExamples
  Of delicate health, he was constantly ill and in pain in the last ten years of his life.
  The Arctic's delicate tundra plants support Large populations of animals such as caribou and provide nesting habitat for huge numbers of birds.
  Mary and her girls were aware of her distraction, and seemed to think it might be the result of delicate health, for they took to often encouraging her outdoors to get fresh air.
  His total commitment to academic work together with rather delicate health meant that he was little involved with the social life of the school.
  Plants of a seemingly delicate nature are almost overpowered by immense tropical-looking foliage.
  But Martineau was in her sixties and in delicate health.
  Most slugs eat decaying vegetation, but readily switch to young or delicate plants, feeding on the leaves, stems, roots and tubers.
  We always conjectured that having no male role model, and this constant shifting at such an early age, probably left Helen a rather fragile, mentally delicate creature.
  Wildlife lovers in Cheshire have drawn up plans to protect the county's animals and delicate plants from future environmental threats.
  We speak of someone as in delicate health, for example, which means that he or she has to take precautions that ordinary healthy people can disregard.
  And I never did interview her because I was aware of her delicate health and I wanted to do it properly - to spend an afternoon with her.
  It is obvious that the market is still in delicate health, but it is important to distinguish between old scars and new wounds.
  My Mama is expecting a baby very shortly and she is in delicate health.
  This adventure proved too much for my delicate health, and I soon developed a severe cold.
  These are usually the more delicate plants such as Clematis viticella, which are best with an annual light prune followed by hard pruning every ten years.
  The emerging plants are delicate, so continuous moisture is essential.
  After resigning because of delicate health in August of 1918, she was honorably discharged.
  He had always been in delicate health, suffering even in his youth from migraine…
  He was delicate in health and of a nervous disposition, but this is hardly apparent from his work, which uses colour in a bold, unnaturalistic manner echoing the Fauves.
  The plants are incredibly delicate and of great botanical value, which explains why the house isn't normally open for the public to view.
  So forget the scary stories about temperamental, delicate plants.
  Although there was only a year of difference between their ages, she was small and petite, not fragile, but seemingly delicate.
  His health was delicate and his studies were in consequence often interrupted.
  Synonyms
  sickly, in poor health, unhealthy, valetudinarian, frail, feeble, weak, weakly, debilitated
2. 2.2 (of a state or condition) easily upset or damaged.
  owls have a delicate balance with their habitat
  Example sentencesExamples
  They also say it will damage rare and delicate upland habitats; hinder the local economy by deterring tourists; and dramatically devaluing nearby properties.
  This new law upsets the delicate balance which the courts had tried to achieve during the 1990s.
  And the coast is our most fragile and delicate environment.
  The wonderful team of nurses cared not only for Lydia, but the delicate state of the family at this time.
  However, the Minister stressed that negotiations were at a delicate state at this point.
  Instead, it captures the delicate state of a country at its most vulnerable.
  You have the power and opportunity to show your true colours and minimize the damage to a delicate ecosystem.
  Some have argued that the timing of the Presbyterians' decision will undermine the delicate peace process now underway.
  To change position was to upset the delicate balance.
  This is a delicate equilibrium balance that can easily be ruined.
  Upon seeing such, I recoiled, remembering her delicate state of mind when it came to men.
  It has upset the delicate balance of life and death.
  A law banning religious hatred will begin to unravel the delicate balances on which freedom and democracy depend.
  As you would expect the ferry crossing was not enjoyable and everyone was in a delicate state.
  The present administration is a coalition reflecting a delicate balance between various constituencies.
  But these states are so delicate they are liable to be destroyed by background noise.
  By the 14th century, there were a number of forces which upset this delicate balance.
  It also moved the region from a delicate peace to almost inevitable conflict.
  Our ancestors understood this delicate balance and went to great lengths not to upset it.
  I kept it from you because I didn't want to upset you in your delicate condition.
3Requiring sensitive or careful handling.
delicate negotiations
Example sentencesExamples
- Clearly, this is a delicate subject, Laurelle thought to herself.
- If this inflames delicate office politics, so much the better.
- She preferred the simple, direct approach to delicate topics.
- Be human in your approach to this delicate situation and the employee will be that much more willing to listen to you.
- I am glad to see you have enough interest in the fascinatingly challenging and yet delicate game of Diplomacy to spend some time to read about it.
- You don't seem to understand how delicate your situation is.
- It is a delicate situation, politically, psychologically, socially.
- She never really knew how to handle delicate situations requiring tact and sincere honesty.
- So certainly the government is watching this very closely to see what influence this would have on the delicate politics here.
- Succession planning is too delicate a business for such an approach.
- The first thing that strikes anybody is the extraordinary courage and unswerving neutrality with which she handles such a delicate issue.
- Our readers have suggested the best ways to handle a delicate issue such as outlandish dressing by students in colleges.
- As to who really controls these hostages, this is all now part of another very delicate situation, political and diplomatic reality.
- Well, there s land acquisition (always an issue requiring delicate handling) and the cost of paying all those consultants.
- Addressing a smear is one of the hardest, trickiest, most delicate things in politics.
- We'd like to post more excerpts, but with the international political situation so delicate right now, it could tip us over the brink.
- This movie takes a very mature and sophisticated approach to a delicate subject, offering no explanation as to why bad things can happen to good people.
- That would be the right basis for the success of this new delicate political panoply.
- It's often hard to find the ‘right time’ to approach someone about a delicate issue, as well as being difficult to say the words you need to say.
- This group does deal with very delicate political and diplomatic issues.
Synonyms
difficult, tricky, sensitive, ticklish, awkward, problematic, problematical, touchy, prickly, controversial, emotive, embarrassing
1. 3.1 (of a person or an action) tactful and considerate.
  the most delicate tact was called for
  Example sentencesExamples
  Hollywood is a place where nuanced language and delicate diplomacy is needed in offering up a critique of your betters.
  Though he has a high school education, he has been trained to be a specialist here, and he considers his job as delicate as disarming a live bomb.
  And later, a time of delicate diplomacy in the Middle East.
  Out of a crass-sounding approach has come a delicate and innovative solution.
  This was no simple affair of the heart, but also a decision which entailed delicate political considerations.
  It is a very delicate process of being politically active, because taking seriously the people you are involved with is a key concern, without romanticising them.
  I think its fair to ask why the murder of a wife is treated in a sympathetic, delicate manner while the murder of a man in a pub is dramatised.
  The film takes a delicate and patient approach toward its characters.
  There has been a really delicate approach to this matter.
  Each requires a certain amount of respectful, delicate, thoughtful mountain climbing.
  Synonyms
  careful, considerate, sensitive
2. 3.2 Skillful and finely judged; deft.
  his delicate ball-playing skills
  Example sentencesExamples
  The ladies are developing their newly acquired skills in the delicate art of egg decoration.
  I am learning the delicate skill of the contestant interview.
  He possesses that deft and delicate touch that can transform interesting prose into mesmerising poetry.
  In sport, delicate skills can plummet fast and far.
  He preferred to finish the marble himself, and his delicate skill is apparent in two marble figures.
  He exhibited more delicate skills when he headed home Hamilton's second goal.
  His movements were very quick, yet delicate, showing his skill and familiarity with the knife and the task.
  He reaches out a hand and with one deft, delicate dart of the fingers rotates my book to face him.
  They fought with the cold methodical precision of a toolmaker and the delicate skill of a highwire circus performer.
  It takes a steady hand and delicate skill to push a wire safely into a human heart.
  Synonyms
  deft, dexterous, skilled, skilful, expert, finely judged, adept, adroit, neat, slick
3. 3.3 (of an instrument) highly sensitive.
  Example sentencesExamples
  They gently transferred each minuscule mite to the host bee via the most delicate instrument available: an eyelash mounted to a small stick.
  Deftly extending the delicate instrument, the Duchess began scanning the landscape before her.
  There are many small and delicate Instruments that can get caught in the bottom of the sterilization pan.
  To describe this as a delicate instrument might be inaccurate, if the term were used in relation to other electrical instruments of extreme sensibility.
  Like a delicate instrument; it records all the little agitations of seeing and being.
  The mind on which we rely is itself an extremely delicate instrument.
  Oetzi's corpse was removed from the ice, not by archaeologists, with delicate tools, but by the local mountain rescue team, with a steam hammer.
  There are still layers of noise and sonic adventurousness, but now it is far more subtle in the mix, applied with a delicate brush rather than a trowel.
  At the far left sat three of the last five probes, boxed and stored carefully to protect their delicate instruments.
  These rather delicate tools may have been used as small chisels or planes, perhaps for wood or bone carving or bark/fiber removal.
  Anyway, it was very exiting to dig with the delicate tools.
  His eyes lit up as the gears shifted, and beneath the glass appeared a long, delicate needle.
  The requirements for accommodating the delicate optical instruments and other scientific apparatus determined the general elevation and ground plan of the building.
  Two antennas will allow the spacecraft to communicate with Earth in any configuration, always having the side hosting delicate instruments away from the Sun.
  Maintenance instruments are so delicate they have to remain in the shop's controlled environment.
  People hurried through the walls, apparently careless of the delicate instruments everywhere.
  The delicate tools used for extrusion of aluminium or plastic profiles are therefore often polished manually.
  ‘Leave us to work - this probe is delicate and we need to proceed with a lot of caution,’ he said.
  A gesture, and a delicate knife was in his fingers.
  It measures 2.7 metres across and is built like a shellfish: its hard shell designed to protect its delicate instruments from the heat of entry into the atmosphere.
  Synonyms
  sensitive, precision, precise, accurate, exact

nounˈdɛlɪkətˈdelikət

informal

A delicate fabric or garment made of such fabric.
Example sentencesExamples
- It wasn't too long until I discovered her delicates (bras, panties, aerobic outfits, and make-up).
- So instead I hand-washed some delicates and got caught up with the ironing.
- Just make sure that my delicates are washed by hand.
- Once you have made your choice of delicates, you throw the rest of your clothes on and go about your day.
- They've developed new appliances to handle delicates, dry cleaning, a fancy ironing station, and of course they've redesigned the old workhorse washer and dryer.
- General sorting categories are whites, light colors, bright or deep-colored materials, permanent press, delicates, and clothes for the dry cleaners.
- Egads, what about all those delicates hanging on the line?
- I bet she'll be willing to part with her delicates - for the right price, that is - if she can have another pair made just like them.

Phrases

in a delicate condition

archaic Pregnant.
Example sentencesExamples
- To her dismay, she soon found herself in a delicate condition and was obliged to marry George.
- If it wasn't for the fact that you are in a delicate condition, I would have tickled you mercilessly for that last comment.
- And don't be shy about telling someone who has bad breath, noxious perfume or cigarette smells on them that you're in a delicate condition and need some fresh air.
- I try to help out around the house, but the family insists that I am in a delicate condition and must rest.
- The timeline suggests, although I don't have proof, that she may have been in a delicate condition while she was at Yale.
Synonyms
expecting a baby, having a baby, with a baby on the way, having a child, expectant, carrying a child

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’.

单词	delicate
释义	Definition of delicate in English: delicate adjective ˈdɛlɪkətˈdɛlɪkət 1Very fine in texture or structure; of intricate workmanship or quality. a delicate lace shawl Example sentencesExamples Her delicate bone structure and elegant grace would always turn heads. When at the click of a button you have the world on your screen, why bother debating the intricate and delicate fabrics our lives? Some of the more succulent plants supported more snails than leaves; every large leaf was eaten down to a tracery of veins as delicate as broekie lace. Where the inner part is smaller, the meshwork structure is more delicate and is not interwoven tightly enough to convey the spiral nature of its structure. A delicate white lace shawl rests around her shoulders, draping down the length of her body. We worked in poor light, but were fascinated with the intricate pattern of the delicate growth. Forget all that nonsense about looking like an orange and think of your skin as the finest, most delicate fabric that you've got to wear for the rest of your life. The delicate intricacy of the leaves provided inspiration for motifs in decoration, appearing on tiles and wrought iron, china, glass and linen. When the characters do not click, the delicate structure of the conversation unravels. Smith opens this space before the viewer, as if it's at our feet; renders its old textures in delicate detail; infuses it with light. The crinkles in the gold leaf highlight the delicate texture of lace, the mottled surface of a pine plank table, or the peeling walls. Many of his breads are given 24 to 48 hours to rise on their own, developing precious flavors and delicate textures. Your ears are connected to your nose and then to the sinuses by narrow passageways - delicate, intricate structures with a remarkable ability to recover after an infection such as a cold. The timbre and quality of its resonance had a lingering delicate quality, which communicated nuances of infinite variety. I think the general pattern is some kind of injury, whether that's a viral infection, a toxin, some kind of insult to very delicate structures in the brain. The bride looked stunning in an ivory and gold raw silk dress of Irish design and carried a bouquet of delicate cream roses. Their trunks, though smaller, had delicate and fine traceries of bark, showing an age far beyond their size. Metallic threads usually are not suited for knit fabrics as the knit's uneven texture may break the delicate threads. In lingerie, this is expressed by delicate shapes in diaphanous fabrics which flutter around the body. Fine, delicate black lines delineate androgynous figures, heads turned heavenward, mouths open. Synonyms fine, exquisite, intricate, dainty, airy, elegant, graceful flimsy, gauzy, filmy, floaty, gossamer, diaphanous, chiffony, silky, wispy, thin, insubstantial, papery 1.1 (of colour) subtle and subdued. delicate pastel shades Example sentencesExamples A faint aroma of the hot earth cooled by the first rains wafted in and filled the room with its delicate fragrance. Precision need not restrict, it can lead to delicate nuances and subtle bloom. Of the 25 paintings exhibited, most use delicate colors such as pastels, soft browns and soft greens. His most characteristic works are abstracts painted in light, translucent colours, often delicate shades of blue. Debussy made as much use of silence as of sound to express emotion, and in the orchestration each instrument was given a delicate colour of its own to blend into the painting. The colours are dominated by delicate pastels and powdery shades of white, sand, cream and beige. It smelled wonderful - a delicate fragrance lost between the natural perfumes of the world. Its ultra-fresh, delicate fragrance draws on cardamom, citron, geranium and coriander. The tea from Darjeeling with its characteristic delicate colour and aroma is called the ‘champagne of teas’. His interiors combine domes, columned screens, and apses with classically derived surface patterns in delicate colours. And at winter dusk, sky and snow are bathed in delicate colours which linger for hours. If you look at apparel, women are wearing more delicate colors, and pastels go along with the retro movements. And finally the most delicate colour on the map is also the scarcest. For the little pears it's totally worth it because I don't need a whole lot and the colour is so delicate. The blouse was a light, delicate shade of pink, with a dark flower pattern covering it. The brow pencil in Soft Brown is a delicate colour and blended well when it was brushed. He also missed her warm body and the delicate fragrance of her perfume. Light yellow varieties, many shades of pink and delicate pastels need full sun to bring out the colorings. The raspberry vodka is photosensitive so, in contrast to their other flavours, they bottle it in dark glass so it keeps its delicate colour. This has a pale hay colour, with a delicate, attractive nose that smells of damp elderflower and freshly peeled apple. Synonyms subtle, soft, subdued, muted pastel, pale, light 1.2 (of food or drink) subtly and pleasantly flavoured. a delicate, sweet flavour Example sentencesExamples Strawberry jam and lemon curd are probably clumsy words to describe the flavours in such a delicate wine. Well done toast on the nose gives way to delicate strawberry and raspberry flavours with hazelnut to finish. If you describe the show as a delicate cheese souffle - you like it? Sauvignon blanc came from Sancerre, in France, was light and dry and tasted minerally and crisp with delicate fruit. The spotted crab, known for the colorful blue streaks on its shell, as well as its sweet and delicate meat, is famous. It was rich and its delicate herb flavouring worked well with the chicken. The intense flavors of the cheese and veg overpower the delicate meat. It had a delicate tomato flavour with a touch of the sea. The delicate sauce enhances, without overwhelming, the sweet freshness that makes lobster so appealing. A fruity, off-dry style from the southerly Pfalz region, this comparatively delicate wine has a pleasantly spicy undertone that would work brilliantly with this dish. Villagers wear rice straw sandals, and the whole nation unwinds daily on a delicate rice wine, sake. Greens, carrots, and delicate herbs grow here, protected from deluges. A succulent dish, it was served with a delicate sauce comprising olive oil, garlic and citrus juice. We spent New Year's Eve with some friends who gave us at dinner (among much else) a gorgeous, delicate soup made from Jerusalem artichokes and cream. The shelves creak with bottles of exotic oils, potions and elixirs, and the minibar is crammed with delicate liqueurs and Belgian chocolates. This makes the delicate Biscuit Rose de Reims the ideal dipping companion of a cup of Champagne, and the perfect biscuit to use in a charlotte, in place of the classic ladyfingers. Nudge into a delicate dish of taramasalata made with fish roe and strong garlic dip. The plump crustaceans were cooked only until tender, then served up in a delicate tomato, wine and feta cheese sauce. This luminescent Italian rose has a sweetness on the nose and delicate spice on the palate that begs for a mouthful of chilled raspberries and a touch of vanilla ice-cream. Courgettes or zucchini lightly cooked in butter are also a delicate dish. 2Easily broken or damaged; fragile. delicate china Example sentencesExamples The best ceramic artworks are delicate, but not fragile, and utilitarian, but not dull. It's not quite the done thing here to rip it open on the spot, but it turned out to be this incredibly refined and delicate china tea-pot. They were sometimes so small they could fit in an adults palm, their skin was always delicate, their lungs fragile. Antonio has produced ceramic containers to symbolise this, the containers are at once delicate and fragile, battered and worn, but also sturdy and durable. They must ‘handle the Koran as if it were a fragile piece of delicate art.’ Most of the works were done on silk or rice paper, both very fragile and delicate materials. Chemicals from tobacco smoke get into your bloodstream and can damage the delicate blood vessels inside your eye. The lungs are also delicate and easily damaged if the ventilation is too aggressive. Wire frame glasses look great with any outfit, the only disadvantage is that they may be a little more fragile and delicate than plastic glasses. Whatever you do avoid touching the gills as they are very delicate organs that are easily damaged. Berries, for example, are very delicate and fragile. He was frightened to move unless he disturbed the stillness, unless he shattered its delicate fragility. Then he carefully pulls the book from the shelf, cradling its delicate pages, its fragile spine in his palms with the same tenderness lavished on a newborn baby. Mouth injuries, such as biting the inside of your lip or even brushing too hard and damaging the delicate lining inside your mouth, also seem to bring on canker sores. Never mind sir, the hit didn't damage any of your delicate equipment. If performed incorrectly, the stress of teasing or backcombing hair can damage delicate strands. Use a soft sponge, cotton cloth or cotton balls and moisturizing cream to avoid damaging the delicate tissue around your eyes. Luckily, the bull also turned right towards the furniture section rather than the more delicate china and porcelain. Corals and other reef organisms are extremely delicate and thus easily damaged. The body is made up of multiple delicate tissues, the most delicate of which is the brain, and taking any drug damages the most delicate tissues first. Synonyms fragile, breakable, easily broken/damaged, frail, frangible eggshell 2.1 Susceptible to illness or adverse conditions. his delicate health Example sentencesExamples Plants of a seemingly delicate nature are almost overpowered by immense tropical-looking foliage. The emerging plants are delicate, so continuous moisture is essential. These are usually the more delicate plants such as Clematis viticella, which are best with an annual light prune followed by hard pruning every ten years. This adventure proved too much for my delicate health, and I soon developed a severe cold. We speak of someone as in delicate health, for example, which means that he or she has to take precautions that ordinary healthy people can disregard. We always conjectured that having no male role model, and this constant shifting at such an early age, probably left Helen a rather fragile, mentally delicate creature. Wildlife lovers in Cheshire have drawn up plans to protect the county's animals and delicate plants from future environmental threats. And I never did interview her because I was aware of her delicate health and I wanted to do it properly - to spend an afternoon with her. But Martineau was in her sixties and in delicate health. It is obvious that the market is still in delicate health, but it is important to distinguish between old scars and new wounds. Most slugs eat decaying vegetation, but readily switch to young or delicate plants, feeding on the leaves, stems, roots and tubers. So forget the scary stories about temperamental, delicate plants. His total commitment to academic work together with rather delicate health meant that he was little involved with the social life of the school. After resigning because of delicate health in August of 1918, she was honorably discharged. Of delicate health, he was constantly ill and in pain in the last ten years of his life. My Mama is expecting a baby very shortly and she is in delicate health. He was delicate in health and of a nervous disposition, but this is hardly apparent from his work, which uses colour in a bold, unnaturalistic manner echoing the Fauves. The Arctic's delicate tundra plants support Large populations of animals such as caribou and provide nesting habitat for huge numbers of birds. He had always been in delicate health, suffering even in his youth from migraine… Mary and her girls were aware of her distraction, and seemed to think it might be the result of delicate health, for they took to often encouraging her outdoors to get fresh air. Although there was only a year of difference between their ages, she was small and petite, not fragile, but seemingly delicate. His health was delicate and his studies were in consequence often interrupted. The plants are incredibly delicate and of great botanical value, which explains why the house isn't normally open for the public to view. Synonyms sickly, in poor health, unhealthy, valetudinarian, frail, feeble, weak, weakly, debilitated unwell, infirm, ailing, poorly Northern English informal nesh 2.2 (of a state or condition) easily upset or affected. owls have a delicate balance with their habitat Example sentencesExamples The wonderful team of nurses cared not only for Lydia, but the delicate state of the family at this time. Instead, it captures the delicate state of a country at its most vulnerable. Some have argued that the timing of the Presbyterians' decision will undermine the delicate peace process now underway. But these states are so delicate they are liable to be destroyed by background noise. To change position was to upset the delicate balance. By the 14th century, there were a number of forces which upset this delicate balance. And the coast is our most fragile and delicate environment. A law banning religious hatred will begin to unravel the delicate balances on which freedom and democracy depend. Our ancestors understood this delicate balance and went to great lengths not to upset it. It has upset the delicate balance of life and death. They also say it will damage rare and delicate upland habitats; hinder the local economy by deterring tourists; and dramatically devaluing nearby properties. You have the power and opportunity to show your true colours and minimize the damage to a delicate ecosystem. This is a delicate equilibrium balance that can easily be ruined. As you would expect the ferry crossing was not enjoyable and everyone was in a delicate state. However, the Minister stressed that negotiations were at a delicate state at this point. This new law upsets the delicate balance which the courts had tried to achieve during the 1990s. Upon seeing such, I recoiled, remembering her delicate state of mind when it came to men. It also moved the region from a delicate peace to almost inevitable conflict. I kept it from you because I didn't want to upset you in your delicate condition. The present administration is a coalition reflecting a delicate balance between various constituencies. 3Requiring sensitive or careful handling. delicate negotiations Example sentencesExamples This group does deal with very delicate political and diplomatic issues. This movie takes a very mature and sophisticated approach to a delicate subject, offering no explanation as to why bad things can happen to good people. Clearly, this is a delicate subject, Laurelle thought to herself. As to who really controls these hostages, this is all now part of another very delicate situation, political and diplomatic reality. She never really knew how to handle delicate situations requiring tact and sincere honesty. Succession planning is too delicate a business for such an approach. If this inflames delicate office politics, so much the better. It's often hard to find the ‘right time’ to approach someone about a delicate issue, as well as being difficult to say the words you need to say. We'd like to post more excerpts, but with the international political situation so delicate right now, it could tip us over the brink. Well, there s land acquisition (always an issue requiring delicate handling) and the cost of paying all those consultants. Addressing a smear is one of the hardest, trickiest, most delicate things in politics. The first thing that strikes anybody is the extraordinary courage and unswerving neutrality with which she handles such a delicate issue. You don't seem to understand how delicate your situation is. It is a delicate situation, politically, psychologically, socially. Our readers have suggested the best ways to handle a delicate issue such as outlandish dressing by students in colleges. Be human in your approach to this delicate situation and the employee will be that much more willing to listen to you. She preferred the simple, direct approach to delicate topics. I am glad to see you have enough interest in the fascinatingly challenging and yet delicate game of Diplomacy to spend some time to read about it. That would be the right basis for the success of this new delicate political panoply. So certainly the government is watching this very closely to see what influence this would have on the delicate politics here. Synonyms difficult, tricky, sensitive, ticklish, awkward, problematic, problematical, touchy, prickly, controversial, emotive, embarrassing informal sticky, dicey 3.1 Tactful and considerate. a delicate approach is needed Example sentencesExamples The film takes a delicate and patient approach toward its characters. Though he has a high school education, he has been trained to be a specialist here, and he considers his job as delicate as disarming a live bomb. Out of a crass-sounding approach has come a delicate and innovative solution. This was no simple affair of the heart, but also a decision which entailed delicate political considerations. I think its fair to ask why the murder of a wife is treated in a sympathetic, delicate manner while the murder of a man in a pub is dramatised. Each requires a certain amount of respectful, delicate, thoughtful mountain climbing. Hollywood is a place where nuanced language and delicate diplomacy is needed in offering up a critique of your betters. It is a very delicate process of being politically active, because taking seriously the people you are involved with is a key concern, without romanticising them. There has been a really delicate approach to this matter. And later, a time of delicate diplomacy in the Middle East. Synonyms careful, considerate, sensitive tactful, diplomatic, discreet, gentle, kid-glove, softly-softly 3.2 Skilful and finely judged; deft. his delicate ball-playing skills Example sentencesExamples He preferred to finish the marble himself, and his delicate skill is apparent in two marble figures. They fought with the cold methodical precision of a toolmaker and the delicate skill of a highwire circus performer. He possesses that deft and delicate touch that can transform interesting prose into mesmerising poetry. It takes a steady hand and delicate skill to push a wire safely into a human heart. He reaches out a hand and with one deft, delicate dart of the fingers rotates my book to face him. In sport, delicate skills can plummet fast and far. His movements were very quick, yet delicate, showing his skill and familiarity with the knife and the task. He exhibited more delicate skills when he headed home Hamilton's second goal. I am learning the delicate skill of the contestant interview. The ladies are developing their newly acquired skills in the delicate art of egg decoration. Synonyms deft, dexterous, skilled, skilful, expert, finely judged, adept, adroit, neat, slick informal nifty 3.3 (of an instrument) highly sensitive. Example sentencesExamples They gently transferred each minuscule mite to the host bee via the most delicate instrument available: an eyelash mounted to a small stick. At the far left sat three of the last five probes, boxed and stored carefully to protect their delicate instruments. The requirements for accommodating the delicate optical instruments and other scientific apparatus determined the general elevation and ground plan of the building. People hurried through the walls, apparently careless of the delicate instruments everywhere. ‘Leave us to work - this probe is delicate and we need to proceed with a lot of caution,’ he said. Anyway, it was very exiting to dig with the delicate tools. A gesture, and a delicate knife was in his fingers. There are still layers of noise and sonic adventurousness, but now it is far more subtle in the mix, applied with a delicate brush rather than a trowel. It measures 2.7 metres across and is built like a shellfish: its hard shell designed to protect its delicate instruments from the heat of entry into the atmosphere. The delicate tools used for extrusion of aluminium or plastic profiles are therefore often polished manually. Oetzi's corpse was removed from the ice, not by archaeologists, with delicate tools, but by the local mountain rescue team, with a steam hammer. Deftly extending the delicate instrument, the Duchess began scanning the landscape before her. The mind on which we rely is itself an extremely delicate instrument. To describe this as a delicate instrument might be inaccurate, if the term were used in relation to other electrical instruments of extreme sensibility. There are many small and delicate Instruments that can get caught in the bottom of the sterilization pan. Two antennas will allow the spacecraft to communicate with Earth in any configuration, always having the side hosting delicate instruments away from the Sun. His eyes lit up as the gears shifted, and beneath the glass appeared a long, delicate needle. Like a delicate instrument; it records all the little agitations of seeing and being. These rather delicate tools may have been used as small chisels or planes, perhaps for wood or bone carving or bark/fiber removal. Maintenance instruments are so delicate they have to remain in the shop's controlled environment. Synonyms sensitive, precision, precise, accurate, exact noun ˈdɛlɪkətˈdɛlɪkət informal A delicate fabric or garment. as modifier the delicates cycle of a washing machine Example sentencesExamples Egads, what about all those delicates hanging on the line? They've developed new appliances to handle delicates, dry cleaning, a fancy ironing station, and of course they've redesigned the old workhorse washer and dryer. General sorting categories are whites, light colors, bright or deep-colored materials, permanent press, delicates, and clothes for the dry cleaners. So instead I hand-washed some delicates and got caught up with the ironing. It wasn't too long until I discovered her delicates (bras, panties, aerobic outfits, and make-up). I bet she'll be willing to part with her delicates - for the right price, that is - if she can have another pair made just like them. Once you have made your choice of delicates, you throw the rest of your clothes on and go about your day. Just make sure that my delicates are washed by hand. Phrases in a delicate condition archaic Pregnant. Example sentencesExamples To her dismay, she soon found herself in a delicate condition and was obliged to marry George. The timeline suggests, although I don't have proof, that she may have been in a delicate condition while she was at Yale. I try to help out around the house, but the family insists that I am in a delicate condition and must rest. And don't be shy about telling someone who has bad breath, noxious perfume or cigarette smells on them that you're in a delicate condition and need some fresh air. If it wasn't for the fact that you are in a delicate condition, I would have tickled you mercilessly for that last comment. Synonyms expecting a baby, having a baby, with a baby on the way, having a child, expectant, carrying a child Derivatives delicateness noun Thematically, the film centers on the delicateness of life. Example sentencesExamples He was tall and thin almost to the point of delicateness, but he didn't look like a beanpole, and I don't think I would have described him as lanky either. It has a delicateness of tone that recalls Debussy. They were definitely a man's step, not the same delicateness of a woman, but they were definitely muffled, it sounded like a man who naturally walked silently. It was fantastic and different, somehow managing to bring out the delicateness of fish and the heartiness of stew at the same time. 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'. adj.1 phr. Definition of delicate in US English: delicate adjectiveˈdɛlɪkətˈdelikət 1Very fine in texture or structure; of intricate workmanship or quality. a spider's web, strong yet delicate Example sentencesExamples I think the general pattern is some kind of injury, whether that's a viral infection, a toxin, some kind of insult to very delicate structures in the brain. Forget all that nonsense about looking like an orange and think of your skin as the finest, most delicate fabric that you've got to wear for the rest of your life. Some of the more succulent plants supported more snails than leaves; every large leaf was eaten down to a tracery of veins as delicate as broekie lace. When at the click of a button you have the world on your screen, why bother debating the intricate and delicate fabrics our lives? Their trunks, though smaller, had delicate and fine traceries of bark, showing an age far beyond their size. When the characters do not click, the delicate structure of the conversation unravels. We worked in poor light, but were fascinated with the intricate pattern of the delicate growth. Smith opens this space before the viewer, as if it's at our feet; renders its old textures in delicate detail; infuses it with light. Her delicate bone structure and elegant grace would always turn heads. Where the inner part is smaller, the meshwork structure is more delicate and is not interwoven tightly enough to convey the spiral nature of its structure. The timbre and quality of its resonance had a lingering delicate quality, which communicated nuances of infinite variety. Fine, delicate black lines delineate androgynous figures, heads turned heavenward, mouths open. The delicate intricacy of the leaves provided inspiration for motifs in decoration, appearing on tiles and wrought iron, china, glass and linen. A delicate white lace shawl rests around her shoulders, draping down the length of her body. Metallic threads usually are not suited for knit fabrics as the knit's uneven texture may break the delicate threads. The crinkles in the gold leaf highlight the delicate texture of lace, the mottled surface of a pine plank table, or the peeling walls. In lingerie, this is expressed by delicate shapes in diaphanous fabrics which flutter around the body. The bride looked stunning in an ivory and gold raw silk dress of Irish design and carried a bouquet of delicate cream roses. Many of his breads are given 24 to 48 hours to rise on their own, developing precious flavors and delicate textures. Your ears are connected to your nose and then to the sinuses by narrow passageways - delicate, intricate structures with a remarkable ability to recover after an infection such as a cold. Synonyms fine, exquisite, intricate, dainty, airy, elegant, graceful 1.1 (of a color or a scent) subtle and subdued. delicate pastel shades a delicate fragrance Example sentencesExamples His most characteristic works are abstracts painted in light, translucent colours, often delicate shades of blue. It smelled wonderful - a delicate fragrance lost between the natural perfumes of the world. Light yellow varieties, many shades of pink and delicate pastels need full sun to bring out the colorings. Its ultra-fresh, delicate fragrance draws on cardamom, citron, geranium and coriander. Precision need not restrict, it can lead to delicate nuances and subtle bloom. And finally the most delicate colour on the map is also the scarcest. For the little pears it's totally worth it because I don't need a whole lot and the colour is so delicate. His interiors combine domes, columned screens, and apses with classically derived surface patterns in delicate colours. He also missed her warm body and the delicate fragrance of her perfume. The colours are dominated by delicate pastels and powdery shades of white, sand, cream and beige. And at winter dusk, sky and snow are bathed in delicate colours which linger for hours. The raspberry vodka is photosensitive so, in contrast to their other flavours, they bottle it in dark glass so it keeps its delicate colour. The brow pencil in Soft Brown is a delicate colour and blended well when it was brushed. Debussy made as much use of silence as of sound to express emotion, and in the orchestration each instrument was given a delicate colour of its own to blend into the painting. A faint aroma of the hot earth cooled by the first rains wafted in and filled the room with its delicate fragrance. The blouse was a light, delicate shade of pink, with a dark flower pattern covering it. If you look at apparel, women are wearing more delicate colors, and pastels go along with the retro movements. The tea from Darjeeling with its characteristic delicate colour and aroma is called the ‘champagne of teas’. This has a pale hay colour, with a delicate, attractive nose that smells of damp elderflower and freshly peeled apple. Of the 25 paintings exhibited, most use delicate colors such as pastels, soft browns and soft greens. Synonyms subtle, soft, subdued, muted 1.2 (of food or drink) subtly and pleasantly flavored. a delicate cream sauce Example sentencesExamples Nudge into a delicate dish of taramasalata made with fish roe and strong garlic dip. Well done toast on the nose gives way to delicate strawberry and raspberry flavours with hazelnut to finish. Courgettes or zucchini lightly cooked in butter are also a delicate dish. Greens, carrots, and delicate herbs grow here, protected from deluges. The plump crustaceans were cooked only until tender, then served up in a delicate tomato, wine and feta cheese sauce. The delicate sauce enhances, without overwhelming, the sweet freshness that makes lobster so appealing. Sauvignon blanc came from Sancerre, in France, was light and dry and tasted minerally and crisp with delicate fruit. It was rich and its delicate herb flavouring worked well with the chicken. The shelves creak with bottles of exotic oils, potions and elixirs, and the minibar is crammed with delicate liqueurs and Belgian chocolates. Villagers wear rice straw sandals, and the whole nation unwinds daily on a delicate rice wine, sake. A succulent dish, it was served with a delicate sauce comprising olive oil, garlic and citrus juice. A fruity, off-dry style from the southerly Pfalz region, this comparatively delicate wine has a pleasantly spicy undertone that would work brilliantly with this dish. It had a delicate tomato flavour with a touch of the sea. We spent New Year's Eve with some friends who gave us at dinner (among much else) a gorgeous, delicate soup made from Jerusalem artichokes and cream. The intense flavors of the cheese and veg overpower the delicate meat. This luminescent Italian rose has a sweetness on the nose and delicate spice on the palate that begs for a mouthful of chilled raspberries and a touch of vanilla ice-cream. If you describe the show as a delicate cheese souffle - you like it? This makes the delicate Biscuit Rose de Reims the ideal dipping companion of a cup of Champagne, and the perfect biscuit to use in a charlotte, in place of the classic ladyfingers. The spotted crab, known for the colorful blue streaks on its shell, as well as its sweet and delicate meat, is famous. Strawberry jam and lemon curd are probably clumsy words to describe the flavours in such a delicate wine. 2Easily broken or damaged; fragile. delicate china Example sentencesExamples The best ceramic artworks are delicate, but not fragile, and utilitarian, but not dull. Whatever you do avoid touching the gills as they are very delicate organs that are easily damaged. It's not quite the done thing here to rip it open on the spot, but it turned out to be this incredibly refined and delicate china tea-pot. They must ‘handle the Koran as if it were a fragile piece of delicate art.’ Then he carefully pulls the book from the shelf, cradling its delicate pages, its fragile spine in his palms with the same tenderness lavished on a newborn baby. Antonio has produced ceramic containers to symbolise this, the containers are at once delicate and fragile, battered and worn, but also sturdy and durable. Wire frame glasses look great with any outfit, the only disadvantage is that they may be a little more fragile and delicate than plastic glasses. Never mind sir, the hit didn't damage any of your delicate equipment. Mouth injuries, such as biting the inside of your lip or even brushing too hard and damaging the delicate lining inside your mouth, also seem to bring on canker sores. The body is made up of multiple delicate tissues, the most delicate of which is the brain, and taking any drug damages the most delicate tissues first. Most of the works were done on silk or rice paper, both very fragile and delicate materials. Corals and other reef organisms are extremely delicate and thus easily damaged. They were sometimes so small they could fit in an adults palm, their skin was always delicate, their lungs fragile. Chemicals from tobacco smoke get into your bloodstream and can damage the delicate blood vessels inside your eye. Use a soft sponge, cotton cloth or cotton balls and moisturizing cream to avoid damaging the delicate tissue around your eyes. Berries, for example, are very delicate and fragile. If performed incorrectly, the stress of teasing or backcombing hair can damage delicate strands. The lungs are also delicate and easily damaged if the ventilation is too aggressive. He was frightened to move unless he disturbed the stillness, unless he shattered its delicate fragility. Luckily, the bull also turned right towards the furniture section rather than the more delicate china and porcelain. Synonyms fragile, breakable, easily broken, easily damaged, frail, frangible 2.1 (of a person, animal, or plant) susceptible to illness or adverse conditions. his delicate health Example sentencesExamples Of delicate health, he was constantly ill and in pain in the last ten years of his life. The Arctic's delicate tundra plants support Large populations of animals such as caribou and provide nesting habitat for huge numbers of birds. Mary and her girls were aware of her distraction, and seemed to think it might be the result of delicate health, for they took to often encouraging her outdoors to get fresh air. His total commitment to academic work together with rather delicate health meant that he was little involved with the social life of the school. Plants of a seemingly delicate nature are almost overpowered by immense tropical-looking foliage. But Martineau was in her sixties and in delicate health. Most slugs eat decaying vegetation, but readily switch to young or delicate plants, feeding on the leaves, stems, roots and tubers. We always conjectured that having no male role model, and this constant shifting at such an early age, probably left Helen a rather fragile, mentally delicate creature. Wildlife lovers in Cheshire have drawn up plans to protect the county's animals and delicate plants from future environmental threats. We speak of someone as in delicate health, for example, which means that he or she has to take precautions that ordinary healthy people can disregard. And I never did interview her because I was aware of her delicate health and I wanted to do it properly - to spend an afternoon with her. It is obvious that the market is still in delicate health, but it is important to distinguish between old scars and new wounds. My Mama is expecting a baby very shortly and she is in delicate health. This adventure proved too much for my delicate health, and I soon developed a severe cold. These are usually the more delicate plants such as Clematis viticella, which are best with an annual light prune followed by hard pruning every ten years. The emerging plants are delicate, so continuous moisture is essential. After resigning because of delicate health in August of 1918, she was honorably discharged. He had always been in delicate health, suffering even in his youth from migraine… He was delicate in health and of a nervous disposition, but this is hardly apparent from his work, which uses colour in a bold, unnaturalistic manner echoing the Fauves. The plants are incredibly delicate and of great botanical value, which explains why the house isn't normally open for the public to view. So forget the scary stories about temperamental, delicate plants. Although there was only a year of difference between their ages, she was small and petite, not fragile, but seemingly delicate. His health was delicate and his studies were in consequence often interrupted. Synonyms sickly, in poor health, unhealthy, valetudinarian, frail, feeble, weak, weakly, debilitated 2.2 (of a state or condition) easily upset or damaged. owls have a delicate balance with their habitat Example sentencesExamples They also say it will damage rare and delicate upland habitats; hinder the local economy by deterring tourists; and dramatically devaluing nearby properties. This new law upsets the delicate balance which the courts had tried to achieve during the 1990s. And the coast is our most fragile and delicate environment. The wonderful team of nurses cared not only for Lydia, but the delicate state of the family at this time. However, the Minister stressed that negotiations were at a delicate state at this point. Instead, it captures the delicate state of a country at its most vulnerable. You have the power and opportunity to show your true colours and minimize the damage to a delicate ecosystem. Some have argued that the timing of the Presbyterians' decision will undermine the delicate peace process now underway. To change position was to upset the delicate balance. This is a delicate equilibrium balance that can easily be ruined. Upon seeing such, I recoiled, remembering her delicate state of mind when it came to men. It has upset the delicate balance of life and death. A law banning religious hatred will begin to unravel the delicate balances on which freedom and democracy depend. As you would expect the ferry crossing was not enjoyable and everyone was in a delicate state. The present administration is a coalition reflecting a delicate balance between various constituencies. But these states are so delicate they are liable to be destroyed by background noise. By the 14th century, there were a number of forces which upset this delicate balance. It also moved the region from a delicate peace to almost inevitable conflict. Our ancestors understood this delicate balance and went to great lengths not to upset it. I kept it from you because I didn't want to upset you in your delicate condition. 3Requiring sensitive or careful handling. delicate negotiations Example sentencesExamples Clearly, this is a delicate subject, Laurelle thought to herself. If this inflames delicate office politics, so much the better. She preferred the simple, direct approach to delicate topics. Be human in your approach to this delicate situation and the employee will be that much more willing to listen to you. I am glad to see you have enough interest in the fascinatingly challenging and yet delicate game of Diplomacy to spend some time to read about it. You don't seem to understand how delicate your situation is. It is a delicate situation, politically, psychologically, socially. She never really knew how to handle delicate situations requiring tact and sincere honesty. So certainly the government is watching this very closely to see what influence this would have on the delicate politics here. Succession planning is too delicate a business for such an approach. The first thing that strikes anybody is the extraordinary courage and unswerving neutrality with which she handles such a delicate issue. Our readers have suggested the best ways to handle a delicate issue such as outlandish dressing by students in colleges. As to who really controls these hostages, this is all now part of another very delicate situation, political and diplomatic reality. Well, there s land acquisition (always an issue requiring delicate handling) and the cost of paying all those consultants. Addressing a smear is one of the hardest, trickiest, most delicate things in politics. We'd like to post more excerpts, but with the international political situation so delicate right now, it could tip us over the brink. This movie takes a very mature and sophisticated approach to a delicate subject, offering no explanation as to why bad things can happen to good people. That would be the right basis for the success of this new delicate political panoply. It's often hard to find the ‘right time’ to approach someone about a delicate issue, as well as being difficult to say the words you need to say. This group does deal with very delicate political and diplomatic issues. Synonyms difficult, tricky, sensitive, ticklish, awkward, problematic, problematical, touchy, prickly, controversial, emotive, embarrassing 3.1 (of a person or an action) tactful and considerate. the most delicate tact was called for Example sentencesExamples Hollywood is a place where nuanced language and delicate diplomacy is needed in offering up a critique of your betters. Though he has a high school education, he has been trained to be a specialist here, and he considers his job as delicate as disarming a live bomb. And later, a time of delicate diplomacy in the Middle East. Out of a crass-sounding approach has come a delicate and innovative solution. This was no simple affair of the heart, but also a decision which entailed delicate political considerations. It is a very delicate process of being politically active, because taking seriously the people you are involved with is a key concern, without romanticising them. I think its fair to ask why the murder of a wife is treated in a sympathetic, delicate manner while the murder of a man in a pub is dramatised. The film takes a delicate and patient approach toward its characters. There has been a really delicate approach to this matter. Each requires a certain amount of respectful, delicate, thoughtful mountain climbing. Synonyms careful, considerate, sensitive 3.2 Skillful and finely judged; deft. his delicate ball-playing skills Example sentencesExamples The ladies are developing their newly acquired skills in the delicate art of egg decoration. I am learning the delicate skill of the contestant interview. He possesses that deft and delicate touch that can transform interesting prose into mesmerising poetry. In sport, delicate skills can plummet fast and far. He preferred to finish the marble himself, and his delicate skill is apparent in two marble figures. He exhibited more delicate skills when he headed home Hamilton's second goal. His movements were very quick, yet delicate, showing his skill and familiarity with the knife and the task. He reaches out a hand and with one deft, delicate dart of the fingers rotates my book to face him. They fought with the cold methodical precision of a toolmaker and the delicate skill of a highwire circus performer. It takes a steady hand and delicate skill to push a wire safely into a human heart. Synonyms deft, dexterous, skilled, skilful, expert, finely judged, adept, adroit, neat, slick 3.3 (of an instrument) highly sensitive. Example sentencesExamples They gently transferred each minuscule mite to the host bee via the most delicate instrument available: an eyelash mounted to a small stick. Deftly extending the delicate instrument, the Duchess began scanning the landscape before her. There are many small and delicate Instruments that can get caught in the bottom of the sterilization pan. To describe this as a delicate instrument might be inaccurate, if the term were used in relation to other electrical instruments of extreme sensibility. Like a delicate instrument; it records all the little agitations of seeing and being. The mind on which we rely is itself an extremely delicate instrument. Oetzi's corpse was removed from the ice, not by archaeologists, with delicate tools, but by the local mountain rescue team, with a steam hammer. There are still layers of noise and sonic adventurousness, but now it is far more subtle in the mix, applied with a delicate brush rather than a trowel. At the far left sat three of the last five probes, boxed and stored carefully to protect their delicate instruments. These rather delicate tools may have been used as small chisels or planes, perhaps for wood or bone carving or bark/fiber removal. Anyway, it was very exiting to dig with the delicate tools. His eyes lit up as the gears shifted, and beneath the glass appeared a long, delicate needle. The requirements for accommodating the delicate optical instruments and other scientific apparatus determined the general elevation and ground plan of the building. Two antennas will allow the spacecraft to communicate with Earth in any configuration, always having the side hosting delicate instruments away from the Sun. Maintenance instruments are so delicate they have to remain in the shop's controlled environment. People hurried through the walls, apparently careless of the delicate instruments everywhere. The delicate tools used for extrusion of aluminium or plastic profiles are therefore often polished manually. ‘Leave us to work - this probe is delicate and we need to proceed with a lot of caution,’ he said. A gesture, and a delicate knife was in his fingers. It measures 2.7 metres across and is built like a shellfish: its hard shell designed to protect its delicate instruments from the heat of entry into the atmosphere. Synonyms sensitive, precision, precise, accurate, exact nounˈdɛlɪkətˈdelikət informal A delicate fabric or garment made of such fabric. Example sentencesExamples It wasn't too long until I discovered her delicates (bras, panties, aerobic outfits, and make-up). So instead I hand-washed some delicates and got caught up with the ironing. Just make sure that my delicates are washed by hand. Once you have made your choice of delicates, you throw the rest of your clothes on and go about your day. They've developed new appliances to handle delicates, dry cleaning, a fancy ironing station, and of course they've redesigned the old workhorse washer and dryer. General sorting categories are whites, light colors, bright or deep-colored materials, permanent press, delicates, and clothes for the dry cleaners. Egads, what about all those delicates hanging on the line? I bet she'll be willing to part with her delicates - for the right price, that is - if she can have another pair made just like them. Phrases in a delicate condition archaic Pregnant. Example sentencesExamples To her dismay, she soon found herself in a delicate condition and was obliged to marry George. If it wasn't for the fact that you are in a delicate condition, I would have tickled you mercilessly for that last comment. And don't be shy about telling someone who has bad breath, noxious perfume or cigarette smells on them that you're in a delicate condition and need some fresh air. I try to help out around the house, but the family insists that I am in a delicate condition and must rest. The timeline suggests, although I don't have proof, that she may have been in a delicate condition while she was at Yale. Synonyms expecting a baby, having a baby, with a baby on the way, having a child, expectant, carrying a child 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’. adj.1 phr.
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