indelicate

[ in-del-i-kit ]

adjective

1. offensive to a sense of generally accepted propriety, modesty, or decency; improper, unrefined, or coarse:

   indelicate language.

   Synonyms: untactful, rude, gauche, indecorous

2. not delicate; lacking delicacy; rough.

indelicate

/ ɪnˈdɛlɪkɪt /

adjective

1. coarse, crude, or rough
2. offensive, embarrassing, or tasteless

Derived Forms

• inˈdelicacy, noun
• inˈdelicately, adverb

Other Words From

• in·deli·cate·ly adverb
• in·deli·cate·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of indelicate¹

First recorded in 1735–45; in- ³ + delicate

Example Sentences

The incident started early on in the three-hour flight, when McGarity commenced his indelicate behavior, the filing alleges.

From The Daily Beast

While claiming to understand “the indelicate nature” of the mass firing over Zoom, Compagno argued that the employees actually deserved to be terminated due to low productivity.

From The Daily Beast

Avoid lounging attitudes, they are indelicate, except in your own private apartment.

From Project Gutenberg

"But no one would be indelicate enough to show a want of respect to their religious scruples," answered Harry.

From Project Gutenberg

There was nothing unwomanly in flowing hair, there was nothing indelicate.

From Project Gutenberg

He dimly comprehended, too, that her presence was an indelicate intrusion, but her intentions were so good!

From Project Gutenberg

Such a demand, indelicate in its simplest form, had been further aggravated by a respectful but clear ultimatum.

From Project Gutenberg