Prov"i*dence (?), n. [L.
providentia: cf. F. providence. See Provident,
and cf. Prudence.] 1. The act of providing
or preparing for future use or application; a making ready;
preparation.
Providence for war is the best prevention of
it.
Bacon.
2. Foresight; care; especially, the foresight
and care which God manifests for his creatures; hence, God himself,
regarded as exercising a constant wise prescience.
The world was all before them, where to choose
Their place of rest, and Providence their guide.
Milton.
3. (Theol.) A manifestation of the care
and superintendence which God exercises over his creatures; an event
ordained by divine direction.
He that hath a numerous family, and many to provide
for, needs a greater providence of God.
Jer.
Taylor.
4. Prudence in the management of one's
concerns; economy; frugality.
It is a high point of providence in a prince to
cast an eye rather upon actions than persons.
Quarles.