1.
[syn: prude, puritan]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:
Prude \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.
[1913 Webster]
Less modest than the speech of prudes. --Swift.
[1913 Webster]
WordNet (r) 3.0 (2006):
prude
n 1: a person excessively concerned about propriety and decorum
[syn: prude, puritan]
The Devil's Dictionary (1881-1906):
PRUDE, n. A bawd hiding behind the back of her demeanor.