Pru"dent (?), a. [L. prudens,
-entis, contr. from providens: cf. F. prudent.
See Provident.] 1. Sagacious in adapting
means to ends; circumspect in action, or in determining any line of
conduct; practically wise; judicious; careful; discreet; sensible; --
opposed to rash; as, a prudent man; dictated or directed
by prudence or wise forethought; evincing prudence; as, prudent
behavior.
Moses established a grave and prudent
law.
Milton.
2. Frugal; economical; not extravagant; as, a
prudent woman; prudent expenditure of money.
Syn. -- Cautious; wary; circumspect; considerate; discreet;
judicious; provident; economical; frugal.