from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
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