delicate implies exquisiteness, subtlety, and fragility.
delicate craftsmanship
dainty sometimes carries an additional suggestion of smallness and of appeal to the eye or palate.
dainty sandwiches
Example Sentences
an elegant solution to the problem the most elegant First Lady in the nation's history
Recent Examples on the WebIn the early 1980s, New York’s brash downtown art scene got a bit more elegant with the arrival of Francesco Clemente, an Italian painter and graphic artist known for his vivid yet ethereal treatments of the human figure. J.s. Marcus, WSJ, 22 July 2022 No phrase of the exquisite 18th and 19th century, mostly French music was anything but elegant in the performances by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel. Mark Swed, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2022 Everything from the sumptuous carpeting to the drapery feels exceptionally elegant. Emma Reynolds, Robb Report, 14 June 2022 In the selfie, both Wilson and Agruma are seen looking elegant in black ensembles while out at dinner. Rosa Sanchez, Harper's BAZAAR, 9 June 2022 The on-sale wrap dress features a sheer Swiss-dot fabric that looks elegant, especially paired with the A-line pleats and matching fabric belt. Nicol Natale, Peoplemag, 3 Sep. 2022 Sedums look surprisingly elegant in containers and need little watering. Carol Stocker, BostonGlobe.com, 31 July 2022 An egg chair with teardrop silhouette looks elegant in any setting. Rachel Klein, Popular Mechanics, 29 July 2022 Elevate your space with a statement sofa upholstered in jewel-tone velvet, or try the trend on throw pillows for a quick, elegant touch. Julianne Hilmes Bartlett, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 July 2022 See More
Word History
Etymology
Middle French or Latin; Middle French, from Latin elegant-, elegans; akin to Latin eligere to select — more at elect