Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • Search All Records
      • Census & Electoral Rolls
      • Birth, Marriage & Death, including Parish
      • Military
      • Wills & Probate
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Schools, Directories & Church Histories
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Blog
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
      • Careers
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2002-2025 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company

      Meaning of the first name
      Prudence

      Origin 
      English

      Meaning 
      Cautious, Intelligent

      Variations 
      Prudencia, Prudencio, Credence

      *Some content has been generated by an artificial intelligence language model, in combination with data sourced from Ancestry records and provided by BabyNames.com.
      Prudence, an English given name with a rich historical background, embodies its meaning of caution and intelligence, making it a popular choice for parents seeking a name with strong connotations. The origins of the name Prudence can be traced back to the English language, specifically deriving from the Latin word prudentia, meaning foresight or wisdom. It gained initial popularity during the Puritanical era in 17th-century England when virtue names were highly favored.

      Throughout history, the name Prudence has had a modest presence, often associated with individuals who exhibit great care and thoughtfulness. In literature, Jane Austen's influential novel Sense and Sensibility portrays a character named Prudence, embodying the attributes of wisdom and discernment. The name also found its way into American history, appearing in the form of Prudence Crandall, a renowned educator and abolitionist in the early 19th century.

      In modern times, Prudence remains a relatively unique choice for parents seeking a name that reflects intelligence and prudence. Though not as prevalent as some other traditional names, its usage has increased in recent years, emphasizing the growing appreciation for names associated with wisdom and careful decision-making. Prudence, with its historic charm and timeless appeal, continues to be a name of choice, granting individuals an aura of thoughtfulness and pragmatism.
      Based on our records...
      This is the most common surname, spouse name and child name associated with Prudence.
      Smith

      is the most common surname for Prudence.

      John

      is the most common spouse name for Prudence.

      John

      is the most common child name for Prudence.

      Start your curiosity engines.

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Free Trial
      Order Ancestry
      did_you_know_bar
      Based on our records...
      Did you know?
      1840 is when there were the most people born with the first name Prudence.

      We'll guide you through the process of building and growing your tree

      Explore the origins of another name.