WordVale

delicacy

/ˈdɛlɪkəsi/  ·  say it: DEL·i·kuh·see

sensitivity requiring careful handling

In Nuance & Precision

In more detail

1. (noun) a food that is rare, expensive, or considered special and elegant

2. (noun) the quality of being delicate, soft, or easily damaged

3. (noun) the need to be careful and sensitive in handling a situation

Examples

• Caviar is considered a delicacy in many countries.
• The delicacy of the silk fabric means you must wash it by hand.
• The situation requires delicacy because many people have strong feelings about it.

Nearby in Nuance & Precision

nuance, finesse, tact, discretion, prudence, discernment