Synonym Usage
See modest.
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of prudish
Explanation
To be prudish is to be extremely proper, almost a little too proper. To be called prudish isn't a compliment. To be proper is to be polite and have good manners. To be prudish is to take being proper to an exaggerated or ridiculous degree. For example, it's definitely a bad idea to use a naughty word in class, but a friend who scolds you when you use it privately could be considered prudish. They're going a little too far. Prudish behavior is also called priggish, prim, prissy, puritanical, and straight-laced. Others usually think prudish people should lighten up.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The display eclipsed the return of garden gnomes to an event so prudish that the lawn ornaments have been allowed just once before in its 113-year history, and only then because it was for charity.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 25, 2026
The online response to the art was painfully scolding and prudish.
From Salon ● Jun. 13, 2025
After her appointment by Rishi Sunak's government, Baroness Bertin made it clear she would not be approaching the topic from a prudish or disapproving position.
From BBC ● Feb. 27, 2025
The prudish resistance may be a colonial import, she said, but it’s entrenched.
From New York Times ● Nov. 15, 2022
She is ten years younger than my mother but looks older, especially now as her face turns long and prudish.
From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
