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Definition of prudishness

prudishness

/ˈpruː.dɪʃ.nəs/
pru · dish · ness
Adverb:prudishly
•
Adjective:prudish
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prudishness Lexical Profile

prudishness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being excessively or affectedly modest, proper, or easily shocked, especially regarding matters of sexuality or nudity.

Example

"Victorian literature is often characterized by a strict prudishness that avoided any direct mention of physical intimacy."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for prudishness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for prudishness

• Nearby Words

prudery
prudish
prudishly
prudishness
prunable
prune
prunella

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in English from 'prudish' and the noun suffix '-ness'. The root 'prude' was borrowed in the early 18th century from French 'prude', a back-formation from Old French 'prudefemme' ('noble or virtuous woman'), ultimately tracing back to Late Latin 'prodis' ('useful, advantageous').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Prudishness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/prudishness
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