prudent

[Fr., from Lat. prudentem, acc us. of prudens, for providens = provident (q. v.); Sp. & Ital. prudente.J *1. Provident, foreseeing. "The prudent crane." -Milton : P. L., vii. 430. 2. Cautious or circumspect in determining on or adopting an action or line of conduct; practically wise; careful of the consequences of any measures, actions, or busine undertaken. 3. Characterized, dictated, or directed by pruen Frugal economical, provident; as, a prudent dence; as, prudent measures. expenditure of money. 5. Correct and decorous in manner; discreet; as, a prudent woman. pru-den-tial (ti as sh), a . & s. [Eng. prudent ; -ial .] A. As adjective : 1. Characterized by, or proceeding from, prudence; prudent, discreet. "Check each impulse with prudential rein." Byron: Childish Recollections. 2. Exercising prudence; hence, advisory, discretionary. 3. Superintending the discretionary concerns of a society; as, a prudential committee. *B. As subst.: A matter requiring prudence or discretion. ( Watts .) *pru-den-tial-Ist (ti as sh), s. tial; -ist.] One who acts from, or prudential motives. [Eng. pruden is governed by,