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noun

as in treat
something that is pleasing to eat because it is rare or a luxury the widow plied her suitor with dainties and endless glasses of sherry

Synonyms & Similar Words

Synonym Chooser

How is the word dainty different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of dainty are choice, delicate, elegant, exquisite, and rare. While all these words mean "having qualities that appeal to a cultivated taste," dainty sometimes carries an additional suggestion of smallness and of appeal to the eye or palate.

dainty sandwiches

When is it sensible to use choice instead of dainty?

The synonyms choice and dainty are sometimes interchangeable, but choice stresses preeminence in quality or kind.

choice fabric

When might delicate be a better fit than dainty?

While the synonyms delicate and dainty are close in meaning, delicate implies exquisiteness, subtlety, and fragility.

delicate craftsmanship

When would elegant be a good substitute for dainty?

The meanings of elegant and dainty largely overlap; however, elegant applies to what is rich and luxurious but restrained by good taste.

a sumptuous but elegant dining room

When could exquisite be used to replace dainty?

The words exquisite and dainty are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, exquisite implies a perfection in workmanship or design that appeals only to very sensitive taste.

an exquisite gold bracelet

In what contexts can rare take the place of dainty?

While in some cases nearly identical to dainty, rare suggests an uncommon excellence.

rare beauty

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of dainty
Adjective
From smaller, daintier hair ties suited for collarbone-length hair to big hair bows that still manage to be lightweight, these scrunchies are easy to put on and even easier to style. Michelle Rostamian, Allure, 1 Feb. 2024 Prada’s lace version is delightfully dainty, especially when styled alongside metallic evening sandals from Zara and Loewe’s sequined tote. Laura Jackson, Vogue, 16 June 2023 The late America Eats Tavern is recalled with dishes including the country’s daintiest chicken wings. Tom Sietsema, Washington Post, 17 May 2023 But for me, it’s been very classy, very dainty, and polite. Breanna Bell, Variety, 10 Apr. 2023 See All Example Sentences for dainty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for dainty
Adjective
  • In the Jungfrau Ski Region skiers get the perfect mix of easy and challenging slopes, nice mountain hut restaurants and aprés ski on the downhill runs and in Grindelwald Terminal.
    Roger Sands, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025
  • Hard partying leads to an acceleration of addiction: Rita, in her thirties, after giving birth to four children; Tyson, in his late twenties, after crashing out of college and working practically every job in the nicer parts of the East Bay.
    Jay Caspian Kang, The New Yorker, 21 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Its classic trim with elegant details on each door can dress up a modern interior or pair with traditional decor to elevate any space.
    Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 18 Feb. 2025
  • Among the standout pieces in the second H&M spring 2025 limited-edition Ramadan collection, semi-shiny satins, jacquards and hammered fabrics add an elegant and luxurious touch.
    Julia Teti, WWD, 18 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • His modest house on Cape Cod, for instance, has been made into an exquisite museum, attracting a constant stream of acolytes, at least in the summer months.
    Lisa Brown, New York Times, 21 Feb. 2025
  • Fashioning Wonder includes some exquisite doll sized clothing and accessories, were traditional objects that might have been included in someone’s collection of curiosities?
    Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • This delicious collection also includes a silk robe, sleep mask and a set of scrunchies.
    Bianca Salonga, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025
  • Ever-so-matted hair and obnoxiously oversize sunglasses sold the look, giving a delicious, greasy spin on what is normally an unglamorous scenario.
    Violet Goldstone, WWD, 23 Feb. 2025
Noun
  • Go have all the cuddles and eat all the doggie treats!
    Ross Rosenfeld, Newsweek, 26 Feb. 2025
  • Frozen yogurt faithfuls can shop the deluxe version of this appliance to make this treat and even more desserts.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 26 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Set in Olivier’s home, the campaign comes to life through a delicate balance of gentleness and audacity, a duality woven into its narrative.
    Essence, Essence, 21 Feb. 2025
  • Inspired by Grace Kelly, the design featured a full skirt contrasted with a delicate bodice featuring a mock neck and long sleeves.
    Shelby Wax, Vogue, 21 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • In The White Lotus’s fine second season, Woodall played an Essex tough with a lovable joie de vivre, a seductive combination that seemed to announce the arrival of a new star.
    Graham Hillard, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 21 Feb. 2025
  • Joel Armia was a healthy scratch, as well, and Erik Haula was fine.
    Arpon Basu, The Athletic, 21 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • China reacted angrily Monday to new State Department wording that appeared to indicate a subtle shift in favor of Taipei.
    Christian Shepherd The Washington Post, arkansasonline.com, 18 Feb. 2025
  • This style can be easily individualized with soft braids, details creating a subtle crown effect.
    Calin Van Paris, Vogue, 18 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Dainty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/dainty. Accessed 4 Mar. 2025.

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