'prudential' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'prudentia', where 'prud-' (from 'prudens') meant 'foreseeing' (related to 'pro-' meaning 'before' and 'videre' meaning 'to see').

'prudential' changed from the Middle French word 'prudentiel' (and via Middle English forms based on 'prudence') and eventually became the modern English word 'prudential'.

Initially, it meant 'having or showing good judgment or foresight', and over time it has remained close to that sense, now often used in formal/financial contexts to mean 'cautious' or 'risk-averse'.