providence

From Anglo-Norman providence, Middle French providence, and their source, Latin prōvidentia (“providence, foresight”), from the present participle of prōvidēre (“to provide”).

• (UK) IPA^(key): /ˈpɹɒvɪdəns/

• Audio (US)

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providence (countable and uncountable, plural providences)

1. (now rare) Preparation for the future; good governance, foresight. [from 14th c.]
2. The careful governance and guidance of God (or another deity, nature etc.). [from 14th c.]
3. A manifestation of divine care or direction; an instance of divine intervention. [from 16th c.]
   • 1971, Keith Thomas, Religion and the Decline of Magic, Folio Society 2012, p. 91:

     The idea was that a complete list of fully documented providences should be compiled as a cooperative venture which would cross denominational barriers.

4. Specifically, the prudent care and management of resources; thriftiness, frugality. [from 17th c.]

   His providence in saving for his old age is exemplary.

• provident

• divine

• IPA^(key): /pʁɔ.vi.dɑ̃s/

• Audio

  (file)

providence f (plural providences)

1. providence

providence f (nominative singular providence)

1. providence (manifestation of divine care or direction)