prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprü-dᵊn(t)s 

1

: the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason

2

: sagacity or shrewdness in the management of affairs

3

: skill and good judgment in the use of resources

4

: caution or circumspection as to danger or risk

Synonyms

• alertness
• care
• carefulness
• caution
• cautiousness
• chariness
• circumspection
• gingerliness
• guardedness
• heedfulness
• wariness

Examples of prudence in a Sentence

He always exercises prudence with his finances.

advised to use some old-fashioned prudence when agreeing to meet face-to-face with an online acquaintance

Recent Examples on the Web

But silence in the face of existential danger isn’t wisdom or prudence. —Jonathan Zimmerman, New York Daily News, 17 Dec. 2024

The Yankees have quickly shifted gears and are moving forward with enthusiasm and prudence. —Wayne G. McDonnell, Jr., Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024

Most of the time, this approach reflects discipline and prudence—putting the institution and its students ahead of a president's ego. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 26 Nov. 2024

But can companies go further—and take sustainability and financial prudence to the next level? —Claus Jepsen, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Anglo-French, from Latin prudentia, alteration of providentia — more at providence

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprüd-ᵊn(t)s 

1

: the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason

2

: skill and good judgment in the management of affairs

Legal Definition

prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprüd-ᵊns 

: attentiveness to possible hazard : caution or circumspection as to danger or risk

a person of ordinary prudence