# discreet

/dɪsˈkɹit/ (US) · /dɪskɹˈiːt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/discreet
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. careful with secrets

adjective · CEFR B2

careful about what you say or do so that you do not upset people or reveal secrets.

For teachers: judicious in one's conduct or speech, especially with regard to respecting privacy or maintaining silence about sensitive information.

- You can tell her your secret; she is very discreet and won't tell anyone.
- The lawyer was known for being highly discreet, ensuring that his high-profile clients' private affairs never reached the press.

### 2. not noticeable

adjective · CEFR B2

small or quiet in a way that does not attract attention.

For teachers: intentionally unobtrusive or inconspicuous in design, placement, or appearance.

- The hotel has a discreet entrance at the back for famous guests.
- The security cameras were so discreetly positioned among the architectural details that most visitors never noticed their presence.

## Examples

- She was discreet about her personal life.
- The assistant was discreet when handling the CEO's confidential emails.
- His discreet manner allowed him to gather intelligence without alarming the suspects.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.