from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Discretion \Dis*cre"tion\, n. [F. discr['e]tion, L. discretio
separation, difference, discernment, fr. discernere,
discretum. See {Discreet}, {Discern}.]
1. Disjunction; separation. [Obs.] --Mede.
[1913 Webster]
2. The quality of being discreet; wise conduct and
management; cautious discernment, especially as to matters
of propriety and self-control; prudence; circumspection;
wariness.
[1913 Webster]
The better part of valor is discretion. --Shak.
[1913 Webster]
The greatest parts without discretion may be fatal
to their owner. --Hume.
[1913 Webster]
3. Discrimination.
[1913 Webster]
Well spoken, with good accent and good discretion.
--Shak.
[1913 Webster]
4. Freedom to act according to one's own judgment;
unrestrained exercise of choice or will.
[1913 Webster]
{At discretion}, without conditions or stipulations.
[1913 Webster] Discretional