Discreetnesses

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The quality or state of being careful and prudent in speech or actions to avoid causing offense or attracting attention; the capacity to maintain confidentiality or privacy; the characteristic of showing good judgment in handling sensitive matters
2. The condition of exercising caution and tactfulness in behavior or communication to prevent embarrassment or undue notice; ability to keep secrets or respect privacy; exhibiting wise and sensitive decision-making in delicate situations
3. The attribute of demonstrating subtlety and restraint in words or deeds to avoid revealing private information or creating discomfort; skill in maintaining confidentiality; prudence in managing confidential or delicate issues

Etymology: "Discreetnesses" is the plural of "discreetness," a noun formed in English from the adjective "discreet" plus the suffix "-ness," which attaches to adjectives to form nouns of quality. "Discreet" itself came into English in the late 1500s, borrowed from the Old French "discret," which descends from Latin "discretus," the past participle of "discernere," meaning "to separate" or "to distinguish." The original sense was about the ability to tell things apart, which is why the modern adjective still carries the idea of judgment about what to reveal and what to keep quiet. "Discreetness" is attested from the 1600s, and its plural "discreetnesses" is rare, appearing mainly when writers want to refer to several distinct instances of tactful restraint. The plural is a form of the noun, so its meaning is the same as the singular: the quality of acting with tact, shown in particular acts.

Synonyms: prudences, circumspections, tactfulnesses, judiciousnesses, carefulnesses

Antonyms: indiscretions, imprudences, recklessnesses, carelessnesses, rashnesses