exquisite
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ɪkˈskwɪzɪt/
KK: /ɪkˈskwɪzɪt/
adjective
Definition
Something that is extremely beautiful, delicate, or of high quality; it can also refer to something that is very intense or acute.
Example
The artist created an exquisite painting that captivated everyone who saw it.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more exquisite
Superlative: most exquisite
Conversation
Have you tried that new restaurant downtown?
Yes, I went there last week, and their dishes were exquisite!
I need to check it out then; I've heard great things about it.
You definitely should — the flavors are just exquisite!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
delicate
elegant
refined
Antonyms
crude
rough
ordinary
noun
Definition
A person who is very particular about their appearance, manners, or tastes, often to an extreme degree.
Example
She is an exquisite who always dresses impeccably and pays attention to every detail.
Conversation
Did you see that new restaurant downtown?
Yeah, I heard it's really fancy and attracts a lot of exquisite diners.
I want to try it out this weekend; the reviews are great!
Root Explanation
Exquisite → It is formed from "ex-" (meaning out of or from) and "quaerere" (meaning to seek or to ask). The word describes something that is sought after or derived from a high quality, thus meaning exceptionally beautiful or delicate.
Memory Tip
Think of something that is 'sought after' ('quaerere') and comes 'from' ('ex-') a place of high quality — that's why exquisite means exceptionally beautiful or delicate.
Visually Confused Words
requisite
perquisite
overexquisite
unrequisite
requisitely