continence

noun

con·ti·nence | \ ˈkän-tə-nən(t)s

Definition of continence

1 : self-restraint especially : a refraining from sexual intercourse

2 : the ability to retain a bodily discharge voluntarily fecal continence

Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More about continence

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Examples of continence in a Sentence

argued for a pregnancy-prevention program that did not put so much faith in the continence of teenagers experiencing a moment of unusual continence, I refrained from returning her gratuitous insult

Recent Examples on the Web

This also means that patients experience higher rates of erectile-function recovery and a faster return to urinary continence. — WSJ, "Is Robotic Prostate Surgery Better Than Traditional Surgery?," 24 June 2018 Charging by service can include extra fees for help with bathing or showering, dressing, grooming or managing continence. — Cassie Cope And Fred Clasen-kelly, charlotteobserver, "Her sick mom's care was costing her thousands and they 'didn't even give you sheets'," 31 May 2018 Although nearly everyone thinks happiness declines with age—along with our posture, continence and memory—the truth is more interesting. — Emily Bobrow, WSJ, "‘The Happiness Curve’ Review: Midlife Slump and Late-Life Upswing," 31 May 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'continence.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.