prudence

[ prood-ns ]
/ ˈprud ns /

noun

the quality or fact of being prudent, or wise in practical affairs, as by providing for the future.
caution with regard to practical matters; discretion.
regard for one's own interests.
provident care in the management of resources; economy; frugality.

Origin of prudence

1300–50; Middle English < Middle French < Latin prūdentia. See prudent, -ence

SYNONYMS FOR prudence

1 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.

OTHER WORDS FROM prudence

non·pru·dence, noun

Words nearby prudence

Definition for prudence (2 of 2)

Prudence
[ prood-ns ]
/ ˈprud ns /

noun

a female given name.

Example sentences from the Web for prudence

British Dictionary definitions for prudence

prudence
/ (ˈpruːdəns) /

noun

caution in practical affairs; discretion or circumspection
care taken in the management of one's resources
consideration for one's own interests
the condition or quality of being prudent