good or discerning judgement, esp. with regard to what is aesthetically pleasing, fashionable, polite, or socially appropriate.

Capacity for perception and appreciation of an abstract quality or concept, esp. one that is highly regarded or valued. Chiefly with of (occasionally…

Indulgence in, devotion to, or cultivation of some other specified pleasure or pursuit.

Aesthetic appreciation or perception. Obsolete. rare.

Taste, critical judgement in matters of art or elegance.

Correct taste and judgement. Obsolete.

The sense of what is appropriate, harmonious, or beautiful; esp. discernment and appreciation of the beautiful in nature or art; spec. the faculty…

Scientific or artistic interest; the quality of a curioso or virtuoso; connoisseurship. Obsolete.

Fastidious taste or care. Obsolete. rare.

Æsthetic or artistic taste, sense, or perception. Obsolete. rare.

Highly or overly developed emotional and artistic awareness; extreme, excessive, or affected sensitivity or sympathy. Now archaic and rare.

At the time connoisseur was adopted in its art sense, there was an attempt also to introduce this word for the corresponding quality of special…

The rôle or part of a connoisseur; critical acquaintance with works of art or matters of taste; the sphere or realm of connoisseurs.

(See quot. 1773.)

In or with reference to the writings of John Ruskin: the perception of beauty as a moral faculty. Cf. theoretic, adj. 5. rare.

Tastefulness, refinement, appreciation of elegant simplicity.