continence Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun the exercise of self constraint in sexual matters
    continency.
  2. noun voluntary control over urinary and fecal discharge

WordNet

Con"ti*nence, Con"ti*nen*cy noun (Also<
  • Continence
  • Continency
)
Etymology
F. continence, L. continentia. See Continent, and cf. Countenance.
Definitions
  1. Self-restraint; self-command.
    He knew what to say; he knew also, when to leave off, -- a continence which is practiced by few writers. Dryden.
  2. The restraint which a person imposes upon his desires and passions; the act or power of refraining from indulgence of the sexual appetite, esp. from unlawful indulgence; sometimes, moderation in sexual indulgence.
    If they [the unmarried and widows] have not continency, let them marry. 1 Cor. vii. 9 (Rev. Ver. ).
    Chastity is either abstinence or continence: abstinence is that of virgins or widows; continence, that of married persons. Jer. Taylor.
  3. Uninterrupted course; continuity. Obs. Ayliffe.

Webster 1913