Definitions

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.

There’s a difference between being discreet about the image you project to others and what you tell friends and acquaintances about yourself.

From MarketWatch • May 26, 2026

This is a reference to the foreign secretary and outwardly gives cover to Sir Olly's anticipated defence, that the law states he should be discreet with information gathered during vetting.

From BBC • Apr. 20, 2026

Long before likes and shares, there wasn’t a door policy exactly, but you could be subject to an unspoken, discreet screening at the host table.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Mojtaba Khamenei, the son of late Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei who has been appointed as the new head of the Islamic republic, is a discreet figure who offers continuity of his father's hardline leadership.

From Barron's • Mar. 8, 2026

Neither of the two brothers appreciated the Frenchman’s charms, despite his discreet attempts to win their favor.

From "The House of the Spirits: A Novel" by Isabel Allende

Vocabulary lists containing discreet

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The Odyssey

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