Prudery

Prudery is an excessive or exaggerated concern with modesty and decorum, often involving a fastidious disapproval of anything considered indecent or suggestive. It manifests as an oversensitivity to matters of sex, the body, or anything that could be considered immodest, leading to a stifling of open discussion, artistic expression, or societal norms. It's rooted in a sense of shame or discomfort surrounding natural human functions and desires. Those exhibiting prudery often adopt a judgmental stance towards behavior that doesn't align with their rigid moral code. This behavior can be seen as a defense mechanism against perceived threats to their sense of order and propriety, frequently leading to censorship and the imposition of strict limitations on others. The core of prudery is a fear of impurity, leading to a relentless focus on upholding a facade of innocence and respectability, which can be detrimental to genuine emotional understanding and healthy relationships.

Prudery meaning with examples

• The Victorian era was notorious for its prudery; long skirts and covered ankles were considered essential for a woman's modesty. Discussions of sexuality were suppressed, and even the word 'leg' was often euphemized. This widespread prudery affected art, literature, and social interactions, creating an atmosphere of repression.
• The film's depiction of a same-sex relationship sparked outrage among some viewers, who accused the filmmakers of promoting immorality and exhibiting excessive prudery. Their objections were based on outdated social norms and a refusal to acknowledge evolving perspectives on human relationships.
• Her grandmother's prudery extended to censoring books and artwork that she considered vulgar. She firmly believed that exposing children to certain topics would corrupt their innocence and refused to engage in conversations about the subject matter.
• The town council's decision to remove a statue depicting a nude figure was driven by a wave of local prudery. Some residents argued that the artwork was offensive and violated community standards of decency, ignoring its artistic merit and historical context.
• Despite attempts to address the issue, discussions about sex education in schools continue to face resistance from those who argue that it encourages immorality and believe that such topics are best left unaddressed, a modern manifestation of prudery.