Meaning & Definition of word "Prude"

Prude

/pruːd/

1. A person who is excessively proper or modest in behavior, sexual matters, or other aspects of life.
- Example: She was such a prude that she would leave the room whenever someone mentioned anything risqué.
2. A person who is overly concerned with propriety and decorum.
- Example: His prudish nature made it difficult for him to enjoy the party, as he disapproved of the dancing.
3. An individual who is easily shocked or offended by matters related to sex or nudity.
- Example: Despite the lighthearted atmosphere, the prude in the group frowned at the joke about intimacy.

The term derives from the French 'prude' meaning 'virtuous or modest', from 'prude', which is short for 'prudent'.

goody two-shoes:

A person who is self-righteously innocent or virtuous.

a prude at heart:

Someone who may appear open-minded but is actually conservative or timid about certain matters.

prudish:

Excessively concerned with propriety, especially in relation to sex.

modest:

Having or showing a moderate opinion of one's own importance.

Meaning: Wet blanket

Example Sentence: Don't be such a wet blanket; loosen up a bit!

Meaning: Buzzkill

Example Sentence: Her constant remarks about how inappropriate the party was made her a real buzzkill.