prude
What does "prude" mean?
A prude is someone who is excessively concerned with being proper, modest, or "correct," especially regarding topics of sex or social behavior. The mental image is of someone clutching their pearls or turning away in shock at a mild joke or a slightly revealing outfit. The term is almost always used pejoratively to imply that the person is judgmental, uptight, or lacking a sense of fun. It is common to hear it in phrases like "don't be such a prude" when someone is complaining about another person's conservative reactions to a lighthearted situation.
"prude" in conversation
At a party
I’m not going to watch that movie, it looks way too raunchy.
I’m not going to watch that movie, it looks way too raunchy.
Oh, come on, don't be such a prude! It’s just a comedy.
Oh, come on, don't be such a prude! It’s just a comedy.
Used to tease someone for being overly sensitive to risqué content.
Discussing a dress code
I really think the office should have a stricter dress code for the summer.
I really think the office should have a stricter dress code for the summer.
You sound like such a prude, David. It's ninety degrees outside!
You sound like such a prude, David. It's ninety degrees outside!
Used to criticize someone for imposing rigid, conservative standards on others.
"prude" in a sentence
She acted like a total prude at the beach.
She acted like a total prude at the beach.
Don't be such a prude; it was just a harmless joke.
Don't be such a prude; it was just a harmless joke.
His reputation as a prude made it difficult for him to fit in with the more bohemian crowd.
His reputation as a prude made it difficult for him to fit in with the more bohemian crowd.
