discreet

[dih-skreet] / dɪˈskrit /

ADJECTIVE

cautious, sensible

Synonyms

STRONGEST

attentive careful considerate intelligent noncommittal prudent reasonable restrained tactful thoughtful watchful

WEAK

alert awake cagey calculating chary circumspect civil conservative controlled diplomatic discerning discriminating gingerly guarded having foresight heedful judicious like a clam moderate not rash observant on lookout politic precautious reserved safe sagacious strategic temperate vigilant wary wise worldly-wise

Antonyms

STRONGEST

careless heedless idiotic inattentive incautious inconsiderate negligent stupid thoughtless unmindful unthoughtful

WEAK

foolish indiscreet rash reckless uncareful undiscerning

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

If leaving without a goodbye could cause confusion or concern, a discreet farewell—whether whispered to the host or sent via text—strikes the perfect balance between tradition and modern convenience.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

The dance teacher said she auditioned for an "unknown artist" and once cast, the top-secret job involved being sent to the filming location in discreet transport.

From BBC • Feb. 18, 2026

For decades a narrow waterway in Ganvie, Benin has been a discreet rendezvous point for young couples to meet -- safe under cover of darkness, far away from strict families and prying eyes.

From Barron's • Feb. 12, 2026

So the device isn’t as discreet in some regards, but future models might be harder to spot.

From Slate • Feb. 12, 2026

When the hearse went left at the end of Highland, we hung a discreet right.

From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx

Vocabulary lists containing discreet

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