The word "delicacy" is spelled with three syllables: /dɪˈlɪkəsi/. It begins with the consonant sound "d" /d/ followed by a short "i" vowel sound /ɪ/. The second syllable begins with the "l" /l/ consonant sound and is followed by another short "i" vowel sound /ɪ/. The third syllable begins with the "k" /k/ consonant sound and ends with the "ee" vowel sound /i/. Overall, the word has a stressed syllable on the second syllable, which is pronounced louder and longer than the other two.
Delicacy can be defined as a noun with several meanings. In its most common usage, delicacy refers to a food or dish that is considered rare, luxurious, or uncommon, often associated with high quality ingredients or complex preparation methods. It encompasses items that are considered highly desirable, exquisite, and appealing to the palate, deserving special attention or appreciation due to their distinct flavors, textures, or presentation. Delicacies often carry cultural or regional significance, being associated with specific traditions, festivals, or celebrations.
In a broader sense, delicacy can also refer to the characteristic of being delicate or easily damaged, such as fragile ornaments or sensitive materials that require careful handling. It can describe someone or something that is physically or emotionally vulnerable, requiring gentleness or sensitivity in their treatment.
Furthermore, delicacy can also describe the quality of being subtle, refined, or precise. It can refer to acts, expressions, or gestures that are marked by subtlety and tact, characterized by a gentle, nuanced approach. This usage can apply to a wide range of contexts, including interpersonal relationships, diplomacy, or artistic performances where finesse and discernment are valued.
Overall, delicacy is a versatile term that encompasses the ideas of culinary excellence, fragility, vulnerability, and finesse, appealing to various domains of human experience.
Fineness of texture; a thing dainty and pleasant to the taste; elegance of feminine beauty in form or dress; a nice propriety in civility or politeness, proceeding from a desire to please; tenderness or consideration; tenderness of constitution; weakness.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word delicacy originated from the Latin word delicatus, which means giving pleasure, delightful, agreeable. This Latin term is derived from deliciae, meaning pleasure, delight. Over time, the word delicatus transitioned into Old French as delicacie and later evolved into the Middle English form delicacy.