Pru"dence (?), n. [F., fr. L. prudentia, contr. from providentia. See Prudent, and cf. Providence.] 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.
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