DISCREET

discreet

(adjective) marked by prudence or modesty and wise self-restraint; “his trusted discreet aide”; “a discreet, finely wrought gold necklace”

circumspect, discreet

(adjective) heedful of potential consequences; “circumspect actions”; “physicians are now more circumspect about recommending its use”; “a discreet investor”

discerning, discreet

(adjective) unobtrusively perceptive and sympathetic; “a discerning editor”; “a discreet silence”

Source: WordNet® 3.1

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Etymology

Adjective

discreet (comparative more discreet or discreeter, superlative most discreet)

Respectful of privacy or secrecy; exercising caution in order to avoid causing embarrassment; quiet; diplomatic.

Not drawing attention, anger or challenge; inconspicuous.

Usage notes

• Although cognate and identical in the Middle English period, the term has become distinct from discrete.

Anagrams

• desertic, discrete

Source: Wiktionary

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Dis*creet", a. [Compar. Discreeter; superl. Discreetest.] Etym: [F. discret, L. discretus separated (whence the meaning reserved, prudent), p. p. of discernere. See Discern, and cf. Discrete.]

1. Possessed of discernment, especially in avoiding error or evil, and in the adaptation of means to ends; prudent; sagacious; judicious; not rash or heedless; cautious. It is the discreet man, not the witty, nor the learned, nor the brave, who guides the conversation, and gives measures to society. Addison. Satire 's my weapon, but I 'm too discreet To run amuck, and tilt at all I meet. Pope. The sea is silent, the sea is discreet. Longfellow.

2. Differing; distinct. [Obs.] Spenser.

– Dis*creet"ly, adv.

– Dis*creet"ness, n.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition

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