\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.