discrete

adjective

di-ˈskrēt How to pronounce discrete (audio)
Definition of discretenext
as in single
not physically attached to another unit several discrete sections to this vast medical complex, including a college of pharmacology and a research center

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word discrete different from other adjectives like it?

The words distinct and separate are common synonyms of discrete. While all three words mean "not being each and every one the same," discrete strongly emphasizes individuality and lack of connection.

broke the job down into discrete stages

When can distinct be used instead of discrete?

The meanings of distinct and discrete largely overlap; however, distinct indicates that something is distinguished by the mind or eye as being apart or different from others.

two distinct versions

When could separate be used to replace discrete?

The synonyms separate and discrete are sometimes interchangeable, but separate often stresses lack of connection or a difference in identity between two things.

separate rooms

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of discrete In American sports, jersey patches are more discrete but growing in ubiquity. — Pete Sampson, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026 Using technology that offers a systemwide view of the aging process in mice, Cao has outlined discrete stages of aging, akin to those of embryonic development, that are defined by changes in molecular signals and specific cell populations. — Ingrid Wickelgren, Quanta Magazine, 14 Aug. 2026 The cabin also features a number of personalized details, including James’ emblem and discrete engravings that reference the basketball player’s hometown of Akron, Ohio, and his family. — Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 12 Aug. 2026 The book is written in fragmentary fashion, discrete chunks of prose that accrete into a greater whole, much like the ancient mosaics that are among of the novel’s thematic touchstones. — Marc Weingarten, Los Angeles Times, 8 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for discrete
Recent Examples of Synonyms for discrete
  1. single
  2. separate
  3. detached
Adjective
  • Jeremiah Johnson, vice president of the National Association of Immigration Judges, said asylum rates appear to be one factor, but the dismissals cannot be attributed to a single reason.
    — Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 4 Sep. 2026
  • That represented Newcastle’s highest gate of the Premier League era — and also the most fans who had attended a single game inside St James’ Park in more than half a century.
    — Chris Waugh, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026
Definition of single
Adjective
  • The squadron has 196 workers spread across five geographically separate units.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 5 Sep. 2026
  • But Republican legislators are pushing back with their own questions, and the state auditor general’s office is conducting a separate investigation.
    — Jacques Billeaud, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026
Definition of separate
Adjective
  • The former Feyenoord boss stood accused of being too detached from the local fanbase.
    — James Pearce, New York Times, 23 Aug. 2026
  • Supervisors also supported language that would allow detached guest houses to be used as vacation rentals.
    — Haley Parsley August 20, Sacbee.com, 20 Aug. 2026
Definition of detached

Browse Nearby Words

discrepant
discrete
discretely
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Discrete.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/discrete. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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