Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Provident \Prov"i*dent\, a. [L. providens, -entis, p. pr. of
   providere: cf. F. provident. See {Provide}, and cf.
   {Prudent}.]
   Foreseeing wants and making provision to supply them; prudent
   in preparing for future exigencies; cautious; economical; --
   sometimes followed by of; as, aprovident man; an animal
   provident of the future.

         And of our good and of our dignity, How provident he
         is.                                      --Milton.

   Syn: Forecasting; cautious; careful; prudent; frugal;
        economical.

Source : WordNet®

provident
     adj 1: providing carefully for the future; "wild squirrels are
            provident"; "a provident father plans for his
            children's education" [ant: {improvident}]
     2: careful in regard to your own interests; "the prudent use
        and development of resources"; "wild squirrels are
        provident"