What does delectable mean?
Delectable is an adjective used to describe something that gives great pleasure, most often something delicious to eat or drink. A rich chocolate tart may be called delectable, as may a fragrant stew or a perfectly ripe peach. Beyond the table, the word extends figuratively to anything deeply delightful — a witty remark, a scandalous piece of gossip, or a charming companion can all be delectable. It derives from Latin delectare, 'to charm or please', and entered English in the late Middle Ages, giving it a slightly literary flavor alongside its everyday use on menus and in food writing. The word connotes indulgence and refined enjoyment rather than mere adequacy: calling a meal delectable suggests genuine delight, not just satisfaction. Its adverb form, delectably, and noun forms such as delectation share the same sense of pleasurable appeal. Because it sounds warm and appreciative without being overwrought, delectable remains a favorite choice for writers who want to convey enthusiasm with elegance.
Highly pleasing, especially to the taste; delicious.
"The chef presented a delectable soufflé that vanished within minutes."
Most frequently applied to food and drink, but readily extended to anything that affords keen pleasure.
Greatly delightful or charming; thoroughly enjoyable.
"Their delectable banter kept the whole dinner party entertained."
Often used with a light, appreciative, or mildly teasing tone when describing people, gossip, or wit.
Before it ever described food, 'delectable' was borrowed from Latin to describe pure pleasure of the mind — the deliciousness came later.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of delectable
Delectable comes from Latin delectabilis, meaning 'pleasing or delightful', formed from the verb delectare, 'to charm, amuse, or delight', itself a frequentative of delicere, 'to allure'. The word passed into English through Old French in the late medieval period. It shares its Latin root with 'delectation' (pleasure) and, more distantly through delicere, with words like 'delight' and 'delicate'.
Related word forms
How delectable is actually used
Slightly elevated or playful in register compared with everyday words like 'tasty'; common in food writing and menus. When applied to non-food subjects (people, gossip, irony), it carries a light, appreciative, sometimes teasing tone.
Easily confused with delectable
'Electable' means capable of being elected to office, while 'delectable' describes something delicious or delightful — they differ by a single initial letter.