continence

[ kon-tn-uhns ]

noun

1. self-restraint or abstinence, especially in regard to sexual activity; temperance; moderation.
2. Physiology. the ability to voluntarily control urinary and fecal discharge.

Other Words From

• non·conti·nence noun
• non·conti·nen·cy noun
• un·conti·nence noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of continence¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English word from Latin word continentia. See continent, -ence

Example Sentences

When treating the prostate gland, for example, medics want to avoid damage to the nearby bladder or rectum, which could leave patients with lifelong continence issues.

From BBC

Then the president and vice president can turn and walk away, ignoring us with a regal continence which is supposed to represent their authority but actually denotes weakness.

From Salon

Any chance Sally or Ed has anxiety, digestive or continence issues, hearing loss …?

From Washington Post

Profligate spending under George W. Bush forever made laughable any Republican assertion of fiscal continence.

From Washington Post

Unknown to her daughters, the hospital had also placed her in continence pads.

From BBC