/ dɪˈsɜːn; NAmE -ˈsɜːrn/ verb (not used in the progressive tenses) ( formal )
1.
to know, recognize or understand sth, especially sth that is not obvious
SYN detect :
[ vn ]
It is possible to discern a number of different techniques in her work.
He discerned a certain coldness in their welcome.
[ v wh- ]
It is often difficult to discern how widespread public support is.
[also v that ]
2.
[ vn ] to see or hear sth, but not very clearly
SYN make out :
We could just discern the house in the distance.
➡ note at identify
► dis·cern·ible adjective
SYN perceptible :
There is often no discernible difference between rival brands.
His face was barely discernible in the gloom.
••
WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : via Old French from Latin discernere , from dis- apart + cernere to separate.