discretionary

adjective

dis·​cre·​tion·​ary di-ˈskre-shə-ˌner-ē 

1

: left to individual choice or judgment : exercised at one's own discretion

discretionary powers

2

: available for discretionary use

discretionary income

Synonyms of discretionary

• optional
• voluntary

Examples of discretionary in a Sentence

discretionary spending on luxuries dropped dramatically last year

Recent Examples on the Web

Experts say such higher pump prices will continue to squeeze lower-income shoppers, while higher-income shoppers buoyed by stock market gains will keep splurging on discretionary purchases. — ABC News, 15 Oct. 2026

Gunther said the brand’s September improvement is particularly notable against a backdrop where consumers remain selective with discretionary spending. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026

On forfeits, the WIAA argued that its rules allowing additional penalties for certain withdrawals apply to postseason competition and that any such penalty is discretionary. — Jackson Thompson Outkick, FOXNews.com, 14 Oct. 2026

Trump has already cut discretionary spending for critical investments – education, environment, healthcare, and scientific research – that keep America strong, safe, and secure. — Wcco Staff, CBS News, 13 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

discretion + -ary entry 2

First Known Use

1698, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing discretionary

• discretionary account
• discretionary income

Rhymes for discretionary

• accretionary
• apothecary
• bicentenary
• certiorari
• concessionary
• concretionary
• confectionary
• confectionery
• constabulary
• contemporary
• deflationary
• depositary

Legal Definition

discretionary

adjective

dis·​cre·​tion·​ary dis-ˈkre-shə-ˌner-ē 

: left to discretion : exercised at one's own discretion

specifically : relating to the policy-making function of a public official see also Federal Tort Claims Act compare ministerial

Note: A public official generally has qualified immunity from lawsuits that arise from his or her discretionary acts.