Dis·creet a. [Compar. Discreeter superl. Discreetest.]
 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.]
 -- Dis*creet*ly, adv. -- Dis*creet*ness, n.

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 discreetness
      n 1: knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress; "the
           servants showed great tact and discretion" [syn: discretion,
            circumspection, prudence]
      2: subtly skillful handling of a situation [syn: delicacy, diplomacy,
          finesse]