Definition of "discretion" []

• The quality of being discreet; circumspection. See Synonyms at prudence. (noun)
• Ability or power to decide responsibly. (noun)
• Freedom to act or judge on one's own: All the decisions were left to our discretion. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

• "This has come about because the word discretion is an unword in police management-officers are regarded as no more than units of production to fulfill the business plan regardless of the consequences."
• "It was true geatlemen had seemed willing to allow them what they called discretion; but. il was such a soil of discretion as a criminal wight be said Id tiave, who was told he might choose this or that posture of suffering, but that he must die."
• "Understanding -- or, "discretion," is a constant source of blessing"