Delicate is an adjective that describes something that is fragile, subtle, and intricate. The word delicate is commonly used when describing a fragile object, such as a vase or a piece of jewelry. However, if you are trying to find a synonym for delicate, you can use words such as fragile, dainty, gentle, refined, subtle, intricate, and light. These words can be used interchangeably with delicate to describe an object, a situation, or a feeling. For example, you can describe a flower as delicate, fragile, or dainty. Likewise, you can describe a painting as intricate, subtle, or refined.