Prude (?), n. [F., prudish, originally,
discreet, modest; shortened from OF. prudefeme,
preudefeme, a discreet or excellent woman; OF. preu,
prou, excellent, brave + de of + fete woman. See
Prow, a., Prowess.] A woman of
affected modesty, reserve, or coyness; one who is overscrupulous or
sensitive; one who affects extraordinary prudence in conduct and
speech.
Less modest than the speech of
prudes.
Swift.