discreet

dis-creet · adjective

imported

Definitions

adjective

  1. 1.

    Careful and prudent in speech or actions, especially to avoid causing offense or attracting attention.

  2. 2.

    Unobtrusive; not attracting attention.

  3. 3.

    Showing good judgment in conduct and speech.

Related words

Antonyms: careless, indiscreet, tactless
See also: discretion, prudent, tactful
Synonyms: careful, circumspect, prudent, tactful

Etymology

From Old French discret, from Latin discretus, past participle of discernere meaning "to separate, distinguish." The word evolved to mean "showing discernment" and then "prudent in behavior." Not to be confused with discrete (meaning separate or distinct).