prudence

noun

pru·​dence ˈprü-dᵊn(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 and the use of resources

3

: caution or circumspection as to danger or risk

Synonyms of prudence

• 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

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

But not necessarily the knowledge, confidence or contacts to take it to next stage of monetization, strike collaborative partnerships or exercise operational prudence. — Gaurav Sharma, Forbes.com, 30 June 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

This is how a title is won, with prudence and luck and a foresight that becomes apparent in the afterglow of victory. — Mike Vorkunov, New York Times, 14 June 2026

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