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

  1. 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.
  2. Practically wise, judicious, shrewd. His prudent career moves reliably brought him to the top.
  3. Frugal; economical; not extravagant. Only prudent expenditure may provide quality within a restrictive budget.

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