circumspect

[sur-kuhm-spekt]

adjective

1. watchful and discreet; cautious; prudent.

   circumspect behavior.

   Synonyms: guarded, vigilant, careful
   Antonyms: indiscreet, careless

2. well-considered.

   circumspect ambition.

circumspect

/ ˈsɜːkəmˌspɛkt /

adjective

1. cautious, prudent, or discreet

Other Word Forms

• circumspectly adverb
• circumspective adjective
• circumspection noun
• circumspectness noun
• noncircumspect adjective
• noncircumspectness noun
• overcircumspect adjective
• uncircumspect adjective
• uncircumspectness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of circumspect¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin circumspectus (past participle of circumspicere “to look around”), equivalent to circum- “around, about” ( circum- ) + spec(ere) “to look” + -tus past participle suffix

Word History and Origins

Origin of circumspect¹

C15: from Latin circumspectus, from _circum- + specere to look

Example Sentences

She is more circumspect when asked if any guests posed any particular challenges - though one actor, unidentified beyond the clue they starred in a massive 70s blockbuster, did give some headaches.

From BBC

Speaking to The Times earlier, when asked if this dire moment might call for Rage’s return, Morello was circumspect about the band’s future.

From Los Angeles Times

District leaders have frequently been circumspect in their words about the Trump administration — critical, to be sure, but somewhat careful.

From Los Angeles Times

If the brothers are coy and circumspect about their personal lives, their working relationship is slightly less obtuse.

From Los Angeles Times

And, as her era of brand builder, lifestyle influencer, and businesswoman steams on, what will it really take for her to broaden her popularity and win over those who are circumspect - or downright negative?

From BBC

Related Words

• cagey 
• careful 
• considerate 
• discriminating 
• judicious 
• meticulous 
• prudent 
• scrupulous 
• vigilant 
• wary