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

• carefulness
• caution
• care
• circumspection

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

This is emblematic of transit leaders’ lack of fiscal prudence. —Micky Horstman, Chicago Tribune, 13 Aug. 2025

While investor excitement may be high, prudence is advisable. —Trefis Team, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2025

Yet Croce and his peers knew that silence in the face of tyranny is not prudence. —Elisa Manfredini, Time, 14 June 2025

But there also is plenty to be said about Micky Arison and his family acting with the type of patience and prudence not seen when James Dolan and the Knicks summarily axed Tom Thibodeau in the wake of New York advancing to the conference finals for the first time in a quarter century. —Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 11 June 2025

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

Rhymes for prudence

• imprudence
• impudence
• jurisprudence

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