prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprü-dᵊn(t)s How to pronounce prudence (audio)
Synonyms of prudencenext
1
: the ability to govern and discipline oneself by the use of reason
2
: skill and good judgment in the management of affairs and the use of resources
3
: caution or circumspection as to danger or risk

Synonyms of prudence

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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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The five points of the star represent the characteristics of a good citizen, which are fortitude, loyalty, righteousness, prudence, and broadmindedness. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 July 2026 Then the old limits arrive dressed as prudence and being humble. — Alexander Puutio, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 The World Economic Forum calls it financial nihilism — the conclusion that the system no longer rewards prudence, driving a cohort toward crypto bets, prediction markets, and raided retirement accounts. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 6 July 2026 Considering there were only 33 appearances this past season, such Heat prudence hardly could be viewed as insulting. — Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for prudence

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of prudence was in the 14th century

Rhymes for prudence

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Browse Nearby Words

prude
prudence
prudent
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Cite this Entry

“Prudence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prudence. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

prudence

noun
pru·​dence ˈprüd-ᵊn(t)s How to pronounce prudence (audio)
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 How to pronounce prudence (audio)
: attentiveness to possible hazard : caution or circumspection as to danger or risk
a person of ordinary prudence

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