nicety

noun

nice·​ty ˈnī-sə-tē 

-stē

plural niceties

1

: the quality or state of being nice

2

: an elegant, delicate, or civilized feature

enjoy the niceties of life

3

: a fine point or distinction : subtlety

the niceties of table manners

4

: careful attention to details : delicate exactness : precision

5

: delicacy of taste or feeling : fastidiousness

see also:

to a nicety

Synonyms of nicety

• fact
• detail

Examples of nicety in a Sentence

knows all the niceties of diplomatic protocol

a woman too fond of the niceties of urban living to even consider becoming a farmer's wife

Recent Examples on the Web

But the word ‘power’ needs to remain prominent when thinking about the niceties of making friends and influencing people. —Simon Chadwick, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026

But Biden still kept up the niceties. —Stylecaster Editors, StyleCaster, 3 June 2026

At the end of the day, recognition isn't just a nicety. —Susan Akyeampong, Allure, 27 May 2026

These include niceties like complimentary garment bags in closets and a pet park with space for four-legged guests to play with toys and water bowls that can be sent to the room. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English nicete, from Anglo-French niceté foolishness, from nice, adjective

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing nicety

• to a nicety

Kids Definition

nicety

noun

nice·​ty ˈnī-sət-ē 

-stē

plural niceties

1

: a dainty, delicate, or elegant thing

enjoy the niceties of life

2

: a small point or detail

niceties of table manners

3

: careful attention to details

nicety is needed in making watches

4

: the point at which a thing is at its best

roasted to a nicety