'Discreetness' definitions:

Definition of 'discreetness'

(from WordNet)
noun
Knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress; "the servants showed great tact and discretion" [syn: discretion, discreetness, circumspection, prudence]
noun
Subtly skillful handling of a situation [syn: delicacy, diplomacy, discreetness, finesse]

Definition of 'Discreetness'

From: GCIDE
  • Discreet \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. [1913 Webster]
  • It is the discreet man, not the witty, nor the learned, nor the brave, who guides the conversation, and gives measures to society. --Addison. [1913 Webster]
  • Satire 's my weapon, but I 'm too discreet To run amuck, and tilt at all I meet. --Pope. [1913 Webster]
  • The sea is silent, the sea is discreet. --Longfellow. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. Differing; distinct. [Obs.] --Spenser. -- {Dis*creet"ly}, adv. -- {Dis*creet"ness}, n. Discrepance

Words containing 'Discreetness'