indiscretion

noun

in·​dis·​cre·​tion ˌin-di-ˈskre-shən How to pronounce indiscretion (audio)
1
: lack of discretion : imprudence
dietary indiscretion
2
a
: something (such as an act or remark) marked by lack of discretion
b
: an act at variance with the accepted morality of a society
resigned because of financial indiscretions

Examples of indiscretion in a Sentence

She committed a few minor indiscretions. put the incident down as just a youthful indiscretion
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some follow-up communication, apologizing for his indiscretion, is likely necessary. Judith Martin, The Mercury News, 13 Feb. 2025 The Pentagon in recent years has taken steps to remedy its past indiscretions against LGBTQ service members. Brooke Migdon, The Hill, 6 Jan. 2025 Given the political indiscretions and untrustworthy reputation of his then-opponent James G. Blaine, Cleveland was still successfully elected to the White House, becoming the 22nd president and the first Democrat elected after the Civil War. Bailey Richards, People.com, 20 Jan. 2025 Arsenal’s manager kept a list of Aubameyang’s indiscretions — many of them related to punctuality — and, eventually, the charge sheet was too long. Phil Hay, The Athletic, 7 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for indiscretion

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of indiscretion was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Indiscretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indiscretion. Accessed 1 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

indiscretion

noun
in·​dis·​cre·​tion ˌin-dis-ˈkresh-ən How to pronounce indiscretion (audio)
1
: lack of discretion : imprudence
2
: an indiscreet act or remark

More from Merriam-Webster on indiscretion

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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