Category:Discreet

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.