incontinence

[ in-kon-tn-uhns ]

noun

1. the inability to restrain natural discharges or evacuations of urine or feces.
2. Philosophy: Older Use. a lack of self-control, especially of sexual desire.
3. Rare. emotional incontinence ( def ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of incontinence¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; from Old French or Latin incontentia “incontinence (of urine); lack of self-control,” equivalent to in- negative prefix + continentia “a holding back, retention”; in- ³( def ) continence