providence

providence · noun¹

1. Latin · derived fromprōvidentia“providence, foresight”
2. Middle French · derived fromprovidence
3. Anglo-Norman · derived fromprovidence
4. Middle English · inherited fromprovidence
5. English todayprovidence

From Middle English providence, from Anglo-Norman providence, Middle French providence, and their source, Latin prōvidentia (“providence, foresight”), from the present participle of prōvidēre (“to provide”). By surface analysis, provide + -ence. Displaced native Old English foresċēawung.

Providence · proper noun²

From providence.

Words from the same roots

First known use, by meaning

• from 14th c. Preparation for the future; good governance; foresight.
• from 14th c. The careful governance and guidance of God (or another deity, nature, etc.).
• from 16th c. A manifestation of divine care or direction; an instance of divine intervention.
• from 17th c. Specifically, the prudent care and management of resources; thriftiness, frugality.