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.
According to Becerra, actually, Democrats have done wonders for Californians with only a few minor indiscretions. Rafael Perez, Oc Register, 9 Apr. 2026 In this case, the arc of the season was primed for Batula to be the victim rising from the ashes of her divorce, only for her recent romantic indiscretions to shatter that fantasy. Shamira Ibrahim, HollywoodReporter, 8 Apr. 2026 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 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Indiscretion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indiscretion. Accessed 17 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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