prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprü-dᵊn(t)s How to pronounce prudence (audio)
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

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.
But other supporters of the former president chose to ask for prudence in negotiations. Mauricio Savarese, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2025 Scouting in stealth: Heat scouring for success (if) at No. 20 in NBA draft ASK IRA: Is practicing prudence essential in Heat not mortgaging future in a Durant deal? Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 20 June 2025 The responses reveal a common thread of caution, planning and prudence, with many pointing to the power of early savings and restraint. Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Apr. 2025 Lopez also has an ambitious and uninhibited way of speaking that is far removed from the prudence of players from older generations. Laia Cervelló Herrero, New York Times, 4 July 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Prudence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/prudence. Accessed 24 Jul. 2025.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on prudence

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