dis·cern·ment \-nmənt\noun (-s) Etymology: Middle French discernement, from discerner + -ment 1.: the act of discerning < his quick discernment of his opponent's weaknesses > 2.: the quality of skill in discerning especially that which is hidden or obscure : readiness and accuracy in discriminating : keenness of insight < a novel of depth and discernment > < displayed discernment and courage >