Prudence

Updated: August 17, 2022 by MomsWhoThink Staff

You don't hear the name Prudence much anymore. It hasn't been a top name for baby girls in the United States since the 1940s, but it could easily make a comeback as a “grandma name.” Prudence is a virtue and vocabulary word name that happens to be one of the Seven Catholic Virtues. Those who aren't Catholic may associate with Greek philosophy or even an old Beatles song. No matter how you view it, don't count Prudence out just yet. Pair it with a current middle name to bring it into the 21st century.

Meaning of the name Prudence:

Latin: Caution
English: Caution

Origin of the name Prudence:

Prudence is a virtue and vocabulary word name that means “caution.” It's derived from the Latin word “prudentia.”

Symbolism of the name Prudence:

As a virtue name, Prudence may offer much in the way of symbolism. Many new parents, particularly those of faith, may choose it hoping their daughter grows up to exemplify this virtue.

Style of the name Prudence:

Virtue name, word name, grandma name

Gender of the name Prudence:

Prudence is a girl's name.

Pronunciation of the name Prudence:

PROO-dens

Number of syllables in the name Prudence:

Two

Emotion evoked from the name Prudence:

The baby name Prudence evokes images of someone who is spiritual and curious about the world around her. She is always exploring and learning.

Alternative spellings for the name Prudence:

N/A

Nicknames for the name Prudence:

Pru
Prue
Prudie
Prudy
Prudi

Popularity of the name Prudence:

According to the Social Security Administration, Prudence was a top 1,000 baby name for girls in the United States up until around 1948. It was most popular in 1943 when it ranked at number 644. It last ranked at number 938 in 1948.