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Definition of indelicate

indelicate

/ɪnˈdɛl.ɪ.kət/
in · del · i · cate
Adverb:indelicately
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indelicate Lexical Profile

indelicate Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Lacking sensitivity, tact, or good taste; socially awkward or slightly offensive.

Example

"She quickly changed the subject to avoid having to answer his indelicate question about her finances."

2

Crude, coarse, or verging on the indecent or vulgar.

Example

"The comedian's late-night routine relied heavily on indelicate humor that made several audience members uncomfortable."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for indelicate

• Nearby Words

indelible
indelibly
indelicacy
indelicate
indemnify
indemnity
indent

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 18th century (often modeled on French indélicat) from the privative prefix in- ('not') and delicate, from Latin delicatus ('alluring, dainty, tender').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Indelicate. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/indelicate
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