discretion
/dɪˈskɹɛʃən/
Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.
Also seen as: discretions
Sense 1
Meaning · English
The quality of being discreet.
Noun
Examples
Bob showed great discretion despite his knowledge of the affair.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Sense 2
Meaning · English
The ability to make wise choices or decisions.
Noun
Examples
With regard to a woman, at nine years of age, she was, if married, considered entitled to her dower; at twelve, she may consent to marriage; at fourteen, she is at years of discretion, and may choose a guardian; […]
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “discretion” mean?
The quality of being discreet.
Is “discretion” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.