improvident
UK: /ɪmˈprɒvɪd(ə)nt/ | US: /ɪmˈprɑːvɪd(ə)nt/
adj. lacking foresight or thrift; wasteful or reckless with resources
The word "improvident" combines the Latin prefix "im-" (negation, meaning "not") with the root "provid-" (from Latin "providēre," meaning "to foresee" or "to prepare"). The suffix "-ent" turns it into an adjective. Historically, "providēre" breaks down further into "pro-" (ahead) + "vidēre" (to see), reflecting the idea of planning ahead. Over time, "improvident" came to describe someone who fails to plan or conserve resources, emphasizing a lack of foresight.
His improvident spending left him in debt.
The improvident use of natural resources harms the environment.
She criticized his improvident attitude toward savings.
An improvident government may face economic crises.
The family's improvident habits led to financial instability.