lacy
UK: ˈleɪsi | US: ˈleɪsi
adj. made of or resembling lace (a delicate fabric with open patterns)
adj. decorated with or as if with lace
adj. having intricate, delicate patterns or details
The word "lacy" derives from "lace," which entered Middle English from Old French "las" (net, noose, snare), itself from Vulgar Latin "laceum" (a noose or string). The suffix "-y" is a productive English adjectival suffix indicating "characterized by or resembling." Thus, "lacy" literally means "resembling or made of lace," reflecting its delicate, intricate qualities. The evolution from "noose" to "decorative fabric" likely stems from the intertwined threads resembling net-like structures.
She wore a lacy dress to the garden party.
The curtains had a lacy trim that filtered the sunlight beautifully.
The cake was decorated with lacy patterns of icing.
Frost formed lacy designs on the windowpane overnight.
Her grandmother’s lacy handkerchief was a cherished heirloom.