Continence

Origin

Dated from the 14th Century CE; from Old French continence, from Latin continentia ("a repression").

Full definition of continence

Noun

1. The voluntary control of urination and defecation.
2. Moderation or self-restraint, especially in sexual activity; abstinence.
• DrydenHe knew what to say; he knew also, when to leave off, — a continence which is practiced by few writers.
• Jeremy TaylorChastity is either abstinence or continence: abstinence is that of virgins or widows; continence, that of married persons.
3. Uninterrupted course; continuity.

Antonyms

• incontinence

Related terms

• continent