dainty /ˈdeɪnti/noun 4adjective 3forms 3 noun4 •A delicacy (choice or pleasing food).[…]my case was deplorable enough, yet I had great cause for thankfulness that I was not driven to any extremities for food, but had rather plenty, even to dainties. — 1719 •[usually plural] A fancy cookie, pastry, or square, frequently homemade, served at a social event. •(no longer used) An affectionate term of address.I am not eager at forbidden dainties — 1616 •(no longer used) Esteem, honour. adjective3 •Elegant; delicately small and pretty.As for those People of the East, (Goa, Calecute, Malaca,) they vvere a Fine, and Dainty People; Frugall, and yet Elegant, though not Militar. — 1622 •Fastidious and fussy, especially when eating.And let us not be dainty of leave taking, / But shift away. — 1606 •(no longer used) Excellent; valuable, fine.Heliogabalus the most dissolute man of the world, amidst his most riotous sensualities, intended, whensoever occasion should force him to it, to have a daintie death. — 1603 formsdainties · daintier · daintiest
