delicacy
DEL-ih-kuh-see
/ˈdɛlɪkəsi/
A choice or expensive food; the quality of being delicate or fragile.
In a food context, it often refers to something rare, traditional, or even 'acquired' (like caviar or bird's nest soup).
The story behind the word. Related to 'delicere' (to lure away or entice). A delicacy is something so delightful that it 'entices' you away from your normal diet.
Word relationships
- treat: A treat is anything special; a delicacy is specifically a high-status or rare food item.
- specialty: A specialty is a dish a place is known for; a delicacy is a food item that is prized for its rarity or flavor.
Word family
- delicate (adjective): Very fine in texture or structure; easily broken.
Collocations
- local delicacy
- rare delicacy
- expensive delicacy
- treat as a delicacy
Example sentences
- "Truffles are considered a great delicacy because they are so difficult to find." Describing a rare ingredient.
- "The delicacy of the pastry was such that it crumbled at the slightest touch." Referring to the texture of food.
Memory hook
Deli-ca-cy: Something you find at a very fancy 'deli'. Rare, refined, and enticing.
When not to use
Don't use it for common comfort foods like pizza or burgers, no matter how good they are.
Fun facts
- What is considered a delicacy in one culture (like fried insects) may be viewed with horror in another.
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