PRUCE
Pruce, n. Etym: [OE. for Prussia: cf. F. Prusse.]
Defn: Prussian leather. [Obs.] Dryden.
PRUDE Prude, n. Etym: [F., prudish, originally, discreet, modest; shortened from OF. prudefeme, preudefeme, a discreet or excellent woman; OF. preu, prou, excellent, brave + de of + fete woman. See Prow, a., Prowess.]
Defn: A woman of affected modesty, reserve, or coyness; one who is
overscrupulous or sensitive; one who affects extraordinary prudence
in conduct and speech.
Less modest than the speech of prudes. Swift.
PRUDENCE
Pru"dence, n. Etym: [F., fr. L. prudentia, contr. from providentia.
See Prudent, and cf. Providence.]
Defn: The quality or state of being prudent; wisdom in the way of caution and provision; discretion; carefulness; hence, also, economy; frugality. Prudence is principally in reference to actions to be done, and due means, order, seasons, and method of doing or not doing. Sir M. Hale. Prudence supposes the value of the end to be assumed, and refers only to the adaptation of the means. It is the relation of right means for given ends. Whewell.
Syn. — Wisdom; forecast; providence; considerateness; judiciousness; discretion; caution; circumspection; judgment. See Wisdom.
PRUDENCY
Pru"den*cy, n.
Defn: Prudence. [Obs.] Hakluyt.
PRUDENT Pru"dent, a. Etym: [L. prudens, -entis, contr. from providens: cf. F. prudent. See Provident.]