How to Pronounce Delicate

To pronounce "delicate", say DEL-ic-at-e — 4 syllables, IPA /ˈdɛlɪkət/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

delicate

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Accent

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Speed

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4

Syllables

8

Letters

/ˈdɛlɪkət/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “delicate”

"delicate" has 4 syllables: del-ic-at-e. It rhymes with indelicate, if that helps it stick.

What does delicate mean?

noun

  1. A delicate item of clothing, especially underwear or lingerie.

    “Don't put that in with your jeans: it's a delicate!”

  2. A choice dainty; a delicacy.

adjective

  1. Easily damaged or requiring careful handling.

    “The negotiations were very delicate.”

  2. Characterized by a fine structure or thin lines.

    “Her face was delicate.”

Synonyms

fragile

Hear “delicate” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with delicate

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

indelicate

Related words

daintytenderoverdelicateexquisitelight-handedsoftfinehard

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "delicate"?▾

"Delicate" has 4 syllables: del · ic · at · e.

What is the IPA transcription of "delicate"?▾

The IPA transcription of "delicate" is /ˈdɛlɪkət/.

What does "delicate" mean?▾

Delicate: A delicate item of clothing, especially underwear or lingerie.

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