Definition of delicacy

The word "delicacy" has its origins in the Latin word "delicatus," which means "dainty" or "refined." This Latin word is a combination of "deles," meaning "to remove" or "to spare," and "licare," meaning "to please." In the 14th century, the English language adopted the French word "delicatesse," which is derived from the Latin "delicatus." Over time, the spelling was anglicized to "delicacy." Initially, the word "delicacy" referred to a refined or dainty quality, but in the 17th century, its meaning expanded to include the context of eating. A delicacy became a rare or exotic food that was considered a treat. Today, the word "delicacy" encompasses both the refined quality of something and the special or rare nature of a food.