prudery etymology

Etymology:

  • Late Middle English: from Old French prude meaning 'respectable', from Medieval Latin provida 'unconcerned', from Latin prōvīdus 'foreseeing'.

Meaning:

Prudery is an excessive or exaggerated concern with moral issues, especially those related to sexual or social conduct. It is characterized by a narrow-minded, judgmental attitude that emphasizes adherence to strict social norms.

Origin:

The word "prudery" emerged in the 15th century in Europe. It originally referred to a person who was overly concerned with following the social conventions of their time. However, over time, the meaning of the word evolved to encompass a more negative connotation, referring to someone who is overly cautious or critical of others' behavior, particularly in matters of sexual morality.

In the 18th century, the term "prudery" became associated with the middle-class values of respectability and propriety. It was used to describe women who conformed to these values by behaving in a modest and reserved manner. However, it also carried a negative connotation, as it suggested that such women were hypocritical or judgmental in their attitudes towards others.

In the 20th century, the term "prudery" continued to be used to describe people who are overly concerned with moral issues. However, it has also been used more broadly to refer to any kind of narrow-minded or judgemental attitude, regardless of its subject matter.

prudery relate terms

  • proud

    Etymology Old English prūd prūde Proto Germanic prūdiz Proto Indo European prew

  • modesty

    Etymology of Modesty The word modesty originates from the Latin word modestia whic

  • plus

    Etymology From Old French plus from Latin plus more Latin plus is ultimately d

  • solidarity

    Etymology The word solidarity originates from the Latin word solidus meaning solid

  • issue

    Etymology The word issue originates from the Old French word issu which is the past

  • posh

    Etymology Middle English posch posshe Anglo Norman French poche from Old French po

  • moment

    Etymology Derived from Latin momentum meaning movement impetus or weight Originate

  • blackmail

    Etymology The word blackmail is derived from the Middle English phrase blake male

  • scaffold

    Etymology Middle English skaffold Old French eschaffaut Latin catafalcum a military

  • determine

    Etymology is the study of the origin and history of words It involves tracing the word ba

  • warrant

    Etymology The word warrant originates from the Old French term warant which in turn