Meaning & Definition of word "Prude"
Prude
/pruːd/
noun:
- 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.
Etymology
●The term derives from the French 'prude' meaning 'virtuous or modest', from 'prude', which is short for 'prudent'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
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.
Related Words
prudish:
Excessively concerned with propriety, especially in relation to sex.
modest:
Having or showing a moderate opinion of one's own importance.
Slang Meanings of prude
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.