delicate

/ˈdɛlɪkət/adjective

Fragile and easily broken or harmed, so it must be treated with care.

Example sentences

“Wash the delicate glassware by hand, not in the machine.”
“Turn the pages gently; the old manuscript is very delicate.”

Also fits situations needing tact: 'a delicate matter'. The noun 'delicacy' doubles as the word for a prized rare food.

Synonyms for delicate

fragile
frail
breakable

Antonyms

sturdy
robust
strong

Related words

daintySmall, delicate, and pretty, often in a light and careful way.etherealBelonging to the sky or a realm beyond the earth; light, delicate, and seemingly not of this world.exquisiteExtremely beautiful, delicate, or finely made; exceptional in quality.hardyPhysically tough and able to cope with difficult or harsh conditions.deliciousHaving a very good taste.deliberateTo think about something carefully and weigh it up before deciding.