delicious

Delicious is a frequently used English adjective describing food or drink that gives a strong sense of pleasure in the sense of taste, aroma, texture or overall sensory impression. In general usage, something described as delicious is notably pleasing and desirable, often suggesting high quality, freshness, or skillful preparation. The term derives from Latin deliciosus "delightful," via Old French delicieus/delicieux, with first attested senses in Middle English. It is commonly applied to foods and beverages but can also describe other experiences that are pleasing to the senses or emotions.

Taste perception is only part of deliciousness. Flavor arises from the combination of taste, smell, texture, temperature, and presentation. Aroma compounds, seasoning, cooking method, and even color influence judgments of deliciousness. Emotional state, expectations, cultural background, and prior experiences shape what a person considers delicious, making the judgment highly subjective and variable across individuals and cultures. In sensory science, deliciousness is treated as a hedonic attribute measured on scales by panels or consumers.

Delicious is contrasted with more technical terms like flavorful or savory and with more general terms like tasty or delectable. It is widely used in culinary criticism, advertising, and everyday speech. Some languages have precise equivalents with different connotations, but in English delicious remains one of the strongest positive evaluations of food quality and enjoyment.