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discerner

American  
[dih-sur-ner, -zur-] / dɪˈsɜr nər, -ˈzɜr- /

noun

  1. a person who perceives or detects something.

    As leaders in the school, we have to be critical discerners of the things brought to our attention.


Etymology

Origin of discerner

discern ( def. ) + -er 1 ( def. )

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Last, but by no means least worthy of mention in our list, must come Davies Gilbert, a great discerner of rising genius, to which he was ever ready to lend help and encouragement.

From Cornwall by Baring-Gould, S. (Sabine)

He spoke, not as a lover of a certain social and political system, but as a discerner of spirits.

From A Hero and Some Other Folks by Quayle, William A. (William Alfred)

Had Hannah been a discerner of spirits to recognize the soul in that miserable little baby-body!

From Ishmael Or, In the Depths by Southworth, Emma Dorothy Eliza Nevitte

Is it not a part of my sacred office to follow in the footsteps of my Master and to be a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart?

From The White Ladies of Worcester A Romance of the Twelfth Century by Barclay, Florence L. (Florence Louisa)

It was an acknowledged sign of a true prophet to be a discerner of hearts.

From The Parables of Our Lord by Arnot, William

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