Definition of discern

• v. t. - To see and identify by noting a difference or differences; to note the distinctive character of; to discriminate; to distinguish.
• v. t. - To see by the eye or by the understanding; to perceive and recognize; as, to discern a difference.
• v. i. - To see or understand the difference; to make distinction; as, to discern between good and evil, truth and falsehood.
• v. i. - To make cognizance.