indiscretion

noun

in·​dis·​cre·​tion ˌin-di-ˈskre-shən How to pronounce indiscretion (audio)
Synonyms of indiscretionnext
1
: lack of discretion : imprudence
dietary indiscretion
2
a
: something (such as an act or remark) marked by lack of discretion
characterized his binge drinking in college as a youthful indiscretion
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.
The most successful and lucrative family vlogs are indiscreet almost by definition—and yet the wrong kind of indiscretion can derail the whole gravy train. Jessica Winter, New Yorker, 7 Apr. 2026 An investigation into accusations of corporate indiscretion by Jeff Shell will make or break the future of the Paramount executive. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 2 Apr. 2026 For the sake of propriety — Paley was one of the 20th century’s most powerful media paschas — his indiscretions were kept quiet. Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 31 Mar. 2026 And right now, Taylor cannot stop herself from initiating phone sex with Dakota even while sobbing over his indiscretions at Vanderpump Villa. Kathleen Walsh, Vulture, 12 Mar. 2026 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 8 Apr. 2026.

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

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