Discreet Definition

dĭ-skrēt
adjective
discreeter, discreetest
Possessed of, exercising, or showing prudence and self-restraint in speech and behavior; circumspect.
The teacher was discreet in discussing the student's behavior. We followed him but kept a discreet distance.
American Heritage
Careful about what one says or does; prudent; esp., keeping silent or preserving confidences when necessary.
Webster's New World
Made, done, or situated so as to attract little notice.
Made a discreet exit out the back door; lovers seeking a discreet place to meet.
American Heritage

Respectful of privacy or secrecy; quiet; diplomatic.

With a discreet gesture, she reminded him to mind his manners.
John just doesn't understand that laughing at Mary all day is not very discreet.
Wiktionary
Wiktionary

Other Word Forms of Discreet

Adjective

Base Form:
discreet
Comparative:
discreeter
Superlative:
discreetest

Origin of Discreet

  • Middle English from Old French discret from Medieval Latin discrētus from Latin past participle of discernere to separate, discern discern

    From American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, 5th Edition

  • From Old French discret, from Latin discretus, from past participle of discernere.

    From Wiktionary

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