[W/K] :: discreetness

  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

  discreetness
       n 1: knowing how to avoid embarrassment or distress; "the
            servants showed great tact and discretion" [syn: discretion,
             circumspection, prudence]
       2: subtly skillful handling of a situation [syn: delicacy, diplomacy,
           finesse]