PROVIDENCE, one of the least of the Bahama islands in the American ocean, but the best of those planted and fortified by the English. It is seated on the east side.
Providence side of the gulf of Florida. W. Long. 77. 35. N. Lat.
25. O.
Provo. PROVINC, in Roman antiquity, a country of con-
siderable extent, which, upon being entirely reduced under the Roman dominion, was new-modelled according to the pleasure of the conquerors, and subjected to the command of annual governors sent from Rome; being commonly obliged to pay such taxes and contributions as the senate thought fit to demand.
Of these countries, that part of France next the Alps was one, and still retains the name Provence.
Nicod derives the word à procul vivendo, "living afar off;" but it is better deduced from pro and vincere, "I overcome."