Definition

Adjective: 1. Excessively or extremely delicate: Describes something that is too fine, fragile, or sensitive, often to an impractical or problematic degree. It implies a level of delicacy beyond what is normal or desirable.

Usage

The adjective "overdelicate" is used to modify a noun, indicating that the thing described possesses an extreme and often excessive sensitivity, fragility, or refinement. It frequently carries a critical or negative connotation, suggesting weakness, impracticality, or being too easily affected.

Examples

• The patient had an overdelicate constitution and was prone to frequent illness.
• She found his overdelicate manners, where he winced at any slight noise, rather tiresome.
• The mechanism is overdelicate for everyday use and breaks too easily.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: Can describe abstract concepts like feelings, sensibilities, or judgments that are excessively fine or easily offended.
  • His overdelicate sense of honor prevented him from accepting any help.
• Critical Connotation: Often implies a flaw or disadvantage rather than a virtue.
  • The critic dismissed the poem as overdelicate and lacking in substance.

Variants and Related Words

• Delicate (adj): Fine, subtle, or easily damaged. (The base word without the excessive connotation).
• Oversensitive (adj): Excessively sensitive, especially to criticism or stimuli. (A close synonym often applied to people or feelings).
• Fragile (adj): Easily broken or damaged. (Describes physical weakness).
• Fastidious (adj): Very attentive to accuracy, detail, or cleanliness, sometimes excessively so. (Can overlap in meaning regarding refined tastes).

Synonyms

• Hypersensitive
• Overnice
• Ultrafine
• Too delicate

Antonyms

• Robust
• Sturdy
• Hardy
• Strong
• Coarse

Adjective

1. extremely delicate
   • an overdelicate digestive system