DISCRETION, n. [L, a separating. See Discreet.] 1. Prudence, or knowledge and prudence; that discernment which enables a person to judge critically of what is correct and proper, united with caution; nice discernment and judgment, directed by circumspection, and primarily regarding ones own conduct.A good man--will guide his affairs with discretion. Psalm 112.My son, keep sound wisdom and discretion. Proverbs 3.2. Liberty or power of acting without other control than ones own judgment; as, the management of affairs was left to the discretion of the prince; he is left to his own discretion. Hence, To surrender at discretion, is to surrender without stipulation or terms, and commit ones self entirely to the power of the conqueror.3. Disjunction; separation. [Not much used.]
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