What does lacy mean?
Lacy is an adjective describing material, designs, or objects that are made of lace or resemble its delicate, openwork texture. It is especially common in references to clothing, curtains, fabric, trimming, and ornamental patterns, as in “lacy curtains” or “a lacy blouse.” The word can also suggest delicacy, refinement, and intricate craftsmanship, even when applied figuratively to writing or reasoning. In ordinary use, lacy emphasizes a combination of lightness, fine detail, and ornamental beauty. It is most natural for things that visibly resemble lace, though the figurative sense can extend to styles of expression or thought that are graceful and subtle. Lacy is related to the noun lace and is especially associated with clothing and decorative household textiles.
Made of lace or resembling lace in texture, delicacy, or pattern.
"The dress had lacy sleeves and a delicate floral border."
Also used figuratively to describe something graceful, intricate, or delicately ornate.
A fabric or material resembling lace, especially a delicate openwork textile.
"The costume designer used panels of fine lacy for the sleeves."
The noun use is less common than the adjective and is often literary or specialized.
The plural is used when referring to multiple pieces or kinds of lace-like fabric, though the noun use is relatively uncommon.
"She collected delicate laces from several traditional garments."
Lacy captures more than texture: it suggests the airy openness and intricate workmanship associated with fine lace.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lacy come from?
Lacy derives from lace, an English word for openwork fabric and ornamental threadwork, through the adjective-forming suffix -y. The noun lace comes from Latin laqueus, meaning a noose or snare, and was historically applied to a looped or knotted cord before developing its modern sense for decorative textile work. Related forms include laciness, lacily, and lacing, all reflecting the same historical word.
How lacy is actually used
Lacy is commonly used for fabric, clothing, trim, and decorative patterns. Figurative uses, such as describing writing or an argument, suggest delicacy and intricacy and are more literary than everyday.
Easily confused with lacy
Lace is the material or fabric made from threads woven or looped into open patterns, whereas lacy is an adjective describing something that resembles lace or has lace-like delicacy.
Lacy is the adjective describing something with a lace-like appearance; lace is the noun naming the textile or the ornamental work itself.