nicety

Etymology

From Middle English nicetee, from Old French niceté (“simpleness, foolishness”), from nice (“simple, foolish”); equivalent to nice + -ty.

noun

1. A small detail or distinction.
   We met the new captain while we were taking enemy fire and were unable to observe the niceties of formal introductions.
2. Subtlety or precision of use; exactness; preciseness.
   [W]e cannot judge with exact nicety whether the hunter or the hunted has the greater dash of toe. 1934, Henry G. Lamond, An Aviary On The Plains, page 210
   A rocket-propelled grenade doesn't have the nicety of a sniper round, but you must admit its effectiveness.
3. Delicacy of character or feeling usually from excessive refinement; fastidiousness
   [I]f you knew how Selina feels with respect to sleeping at an inn, you would not wonder at Mrs. Churchill’s making incredible exertions to avoid it. Selina says it is quite horror to her—and I believe I have caught a little of her nicety. 1815, Jane Austen, Emma, volume II, chapter 18
4. (obsolete) That which is delicate to the taste.