delicacy

views updated May 14 2018

del·i·ca·cy / ˈdelikəsē/ • n. (pl. -cies) 1. the quality of being delicate, in particular: ∎  fineness or intricacy of texture or structure. ∎  susceptibility to illness or adverse conditions; fragility. ∎  the quality of requiring discretion or sensitivity: the delicacy of the situation. ∎  tact and consideration: I have to treat this matter with delicacy. ∎  accuracy of perception; sensitiveness.2. a choice or expensive food: a Chinese delicacy.