A prude is someone who is easily shocked or offended by things related to the body, romance, or anything they consider improper or immodest. If someone gasps and looks away when characters in a movie share a kiss, or insists that everyone must be completely covered up at the beach, they might be called a prude.

The word usually carries a mildly critical tone. It suggests someone is being overly strict or fussy about things many people consider normal or harmless. When your friend refuses to join a conversation about your favorite romantic comedy because it's “too embarrassing,” you might tease them for being prudish.

Being thoughtful about what you watch or read can be wise, but a prude takes it to an extreme, sometimes trying to control what others do, too.

Different families and cultures have different standards for what's appropriate, and respecting those differences matters. The word prude typically describes someone who goes beyond their own standards and seems bothered by ordinary, innocent things that don't actually harm anyone.