indelicately
|in-del-i-cate-ly|
C1
/ɪnˈdɛlɪkətli/
(indelicate)
lacking sensitivity
Etymology
Etymology Information
'indelicate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'indelicatus,' where 'in-' meant 'not' and 'delicatus' meant 'dainty or delicate.'
Historical Evolution
'indelicatus' transformed into the French word 'indélicat,' and eventually became the modern English word 'indelicate' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'not delicate or dainty,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'lacking sensitivity or tact.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner lacking sensitivity or tact.
He indelicately pointed out her mistake in front of everyone.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/03/01 14:21
