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adj. 1. Possessed of, exercising, or showing prudence and self-restraint in speech and behavior; circumspect: The teacher was discreet in discussing the student's behavior. We followed him but kept a discreet distance. 2. Made, done, or situated so as to attract little notice: made a discreet exit out the back door; lovers seeking a discreet place to meet. [Middle English, from Old French discret, from Medieval Latin discrētus, from Latin, past participle of discernere, to separate, discern; see DISCERN.] dis·creetly adv. dis·creetness n. |
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