View synonyms for continence

continence

[ kon-tn-uhns ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

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

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

I remarked, what a difficulty the law of continence must impose on those who had to determine the vocation of young men.

He was thoroughly persuaded that continence could not be really observed by the French clergy.

In the popular view, continence, self-control, is adherence to our formed judgment.

A number of well-meaning people demand from men absolute "continence" save for procreation only.

The lesson of history, then, is that continence is essential to the progress of the race.

April 18, 2024petrichor

[pet-ri-kawr]

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