What is the meaning of the term "delicious" in relation to food?

The term "delicious" in relation to food primarily refers to something that is very tasty or flavorful. When food is described as delicious, it indicates that it has a pleasing taste or aroma that enhances the eating experience. This term conveys satisfaction and enjoyment derived from consuming the food, which can involve the balance of flavors, textures, and aromas that make the dish appealing.

In the context of food, taste is a subjective experience, yet "delicious" universally signals a positive reaction to the flavors present. Other choices, such as expensive, bad, or cheap, do not accurately capture the essence of what makes food enjoyable or desirable in terms of flavor. Being expensive might relate to quality but does not guarantee taste, while bad signifies negative impressions, and cheap refers to cost rather than flavor. Thus, "very tasty" is the term that directly aligns with the quality of food described as delicious.