# continence

> English word · Noun · IPA /ˈkɒntɪnəns/ · frequency rank #84,116

## Definitions
1. The voluntary control of urination and defecation.
2. Moderation or self-restraint, especially in sexual activity; abstinence.
3. Uninterrupted course; continuity.

## Etymology
Dated from the 14th century as Middle English contynence, from Old French continence, from Latin continentia (“a repression”). See also countenance.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/continence