Prude
3294153
226173480
2008-07-17T04:08:01Z
68.229.0.226
{{for|the American football cornerback|Ronnie Prude}}
{{Wiktionary}}
A '''prude''' ([[Old French]] ''prude'')<ref>{{cite web | title=Prude - yourDictionary.com | publisher=Houghton Mifflin Company | url=http://www.yourdictionary.com/ahd/p/p0625700.html | accessdate=2007-04-07 }}</ref> is a person who is described as being overly concerned with [[decorum]] or [[propriety]]. They may be perceived as being uncomfortable with [[human sexuality|sexuality]], [[nudity]], [[alcohol]], [[Recreational drug use|drug use]] or mischief.
The name is generally considered to mean excessive [[modesty]], and hence unflattering, and is often used as an insult. A person who is considered a prude may have reservations about nudity, participating in romantic or sexual activity, drinking alcohol or consuming other drugs, participating in mischief, or participating in sexual activities oftenly. These reservations may stem from [[shyness]] or strict moral beliefs. Actions or beliefs that may cause someone to be labeled a prude include advocating or practising [[abstinence]], advocating [[prohibition]], advocating [[censorship]] of sexuality or [[Depictions of nudity|nudity in media]], disapproval of being [[Toplessness|topless]] in public, avoiding or condemning [[public display of affection]], or exhibiting unusual levels of discomfort with sexuality, alcohol, drugs or mischief.
Like [[modesty]], one's perceived prudishness may vary according to who is present.
In contrast, prude was originally a noble compliment. Throughout history, it was usually associated with wisdom, integrity, usefulness, and profit.<ref>{{cite web | title=Prude - http://www.answers.com/topic/prude | url=http://www.answers.com/topic/prude | accessdate=2008-05-02 }}</ref>
''Sexually repressed'' or ''sexually repressive'' are other terms used to describe people who might be labeled prudes. The term ''Puritan'' is sometimes used in the same way, reflecting the stereotype image of members of the [[Puritan]] religious sect.
The degree of being prude can vary among different cultural frames.
In many areas of [[New York]] and [[New Jersey]], the term "prude" has been adapted to a noun, a person who hasn't yet received their first [[kiss]].
== See also ==
*[[Prig]]
*[[Puritan]]
*[[Sex-negativity]]
== References ==
<references/>
[[Category:Pejorative terms for people]]
[[Category:French loanwords]]
[[de:PrĂ¼derie]]