DISCREET


Meaning of DISCREET in English

adj.

Pronunciation: di- ' skr ē t

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Anglo-French discret, from Medieval Latin discretus, from Latin, past participle of discernere to separate, distinguish between ― more at DISCERN

Date: 14th century

1 : having or showing discernment or good judgment in conduct and especially in speech : PRUDENT especially : capable of preserving prudent silence

2 : UNPRETENTIOUS , MODEST <the warmth and discreet elegance of a civilized home ― Joseph Wechsberg>

3 : UNOBTRUSIVE , UNNOTICEABLE <followed at a discreet distance>

– dis · creet · ly adverb

– dis · creet · ness noun

Merriam Webster Collegiate English Dictionary.      Merriam Webster - Энциклопедический словарь английского языка.