discreetly
|dis-creet-ly|
B2
🇺🇸
/dɪˈskritli/
🇬🇧
/dɪˈskriːtli/
(discreet)
careful and circumspect
Etymology
Etymology Information
'discreet' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'discretus,' where 'dis-' meant 'apart' and 'cernere' meant 'to separate.'
Historical Evolution
'discretus' transformed into the Old French word 'discret,' and eventually became the modern English word 'discreet' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'separated or distinct,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'careful and circumspect.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adverb 1
in a manner that is careful and circumspect in one's speech or actions, especially to avoid causing offense or to gain an advantage.
She discreetly left the room to avoid drawing attention.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41