"external genitals," late 14c. (pudenda), from Latin pudendum (plural pudenda), literally "thing to be ashamed of," neuter gerundive of pudere "make ashamed; be ashamed," from PIE root *(s)peud- "to punish, repulse." Translated into Old English as scamlim ("shame-limb"); in Middle English also Englished as pudende (early 15c.). Related: Pudendal.