Prudery
(noun)
Excessive or affected modesty or propriety; a lack of openness in sexual matters.
Origin:
Early 19th century: from french pruderie, from pruderieux, from prud"homme "prudent man".
Examples:
- The society's prudery made it difficult for people to talk openly about sex and other sensitive topics.
- She was criticized for her prudery, as she was always uncomfortable discussing any topic that had to do with sex or sexuality.
- His prudery was seen as a weakness by his friends and colleagues, as they thought that he was not being open-minded enough.
- The novel was banned for its alleged prudery, as it was seen as promoting traditional, conservative values around sexual behavior.
- The prudery of the Victorian era was characterized by a lack of openness and frankness in sexual matters.