Dis*creet" (?), a. [Compar. Discreeter (?); superl. Discreetest.] [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.
© Webster 1913. | 
