prudence

¹

[prood-ns]

noun

1. the quality or fact of being prudent, or wise in practical affairs, as by providing for the future.

   Antonyms: rashness

2. caution with regard to practical matters; discretion.

3. regard for one's own interests.

4. provident care in the management of resources; economy; frugality.

Prudence

²

[prood-ns]

noun

1. a female given name.

prudence

/ ˈpruːdəns /

noun

1. caution in practical affairs; discretion or circumspection

2. care taken in the management of one's resources

3. consideration for one's own interests

4. the condition or quality of being prudent

Other Word Forms

• nonprudence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of prudence¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English, from Middle French, from Latin prūdentia. See prudent, -ence

Synonym Study

Prudence, calculation, foresight, forethought imply attempted provision against possible contingencies. Prudence is care, caution, and good judgment, as well as wisdom in looking ahead: sober prudence in handling one's affairs. Calculation suggests a disposition to get a large return for as small an outlay as possible and willingness to benefit at the expense of others: cold calculation. Foresight implies a prudent looking ahead rather far into the future: clear foresight in planning. Forethought emphasizes the adequacy of preparation for the future: Careful forethought helped him deal with the emergency.

Example Sentences

Under the guise of defending national identity and fiscal prudence, these cuts threaten academic freedom and international collaboration.

From Salon

Being asked to serve is an honor, since the person choosing you is saying they expect you will act with honor, integrity and prudence.

From Los Angeles Times

It was also a speech that encapsulates an entire geopolitical era — that of a return to prudence, sobriety and nationalism as the hallmarks of American foreign affairs.

From Los Angeles Times

If he follows the law, as his oath and prudence indicate he must, then democracy survives.

From Salon

Decades later, Chancellor Reeves would say that kind of restraint defines her, and she has very much modelled herself on Gordon Brown’s "prudence" in the lead-up to Labour’s 1997 election win.

From BBC

Related Words

• austerity 
• conservatism 
• diligence 
• discretion 
• foresight 
• frugality 
• judgment 
• tact 
• vigilance 
• wisdom