prudent
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prudent
- /ˈpɹuː.dənt/ UK
- /ˈpɹu.dənt/ Canada, US
- /ˈpɹʉː.dənt/ Australia, New Zealand
- /ˈpɹʉ.dənt/ Scotland
- /ˈpɹʉd.ʌnt/ Scotland
Rhymes with -uːdənt
Where it comes from
Inherited from Middle English prudent, from Old French prudent, from Latin prūdēns, contracted from prōvidēns (“foresight”) (English providence), the present participle of prōvideō (“to forsee; to provide for”). Unrelated to prude. Doublet of provident. Displaced native Old English glēaw.
adjective more prudent · most prudent
- Sagacious in adapting means to ends; circumspect in action, or in determining any line of conduct. It is prudent to consult a physician before beginning any new exercise regimen.
- Practically wise, judicious, shrewd. His prudent career moves reliably brought him to the top.
- Frugal; economical; not extravagant. Only prudent expenditure may provide quality within a restrictive budget.