WordWeight : Weighing the Words

Pronunciation : Prov"i*dence
Part of Speech : n.
Etymology : [L. providentia: cf. F. providence. See Provident, and cf. Prudence.]
Definition : 1. The act of providing or preparing for future use or application; a making ready; preparation. Providence for war is the best prevention of it. Bacon.

2. Foresight; care; especially, the foresight and care which God manifests for his creatures; hence, God himself, regarded as exercising a constant wise prescience. The world was all before them, where to choose Their place of rest, and Providence their guide. Milton.

3. (Theol.)

Defn: A manifestation of the care and superintendence which God exercises over his creatures; an event ordained by divine direction. He that hath a numerous family, and many to provide for, needs a greater providence of God. Jer. Taylor.

4. Prudence in the management of one's concerns; economy; frugality. It is a high point of providence in a prince to cast an eye rather upon actions than persons. Quarles.
Source : Webster's Unabridged Dictionary, 1913