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Continence: meaning, definitions and examples

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continence

 

[ ˈkɒntɪnəns ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

medical condition

Continence refers to the ability to control bodily functions, particularly the control over urination and defecation. It is a significant aspect of human health and well-being. Lack of continence can lead to various medical issues and can greatly affect a person's quality of life. Maintaining continence is often a key focus in nursing care for older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Synonyms

abstinence, self-control

Examples of usage

  • The patient is experiencing incontinence due to a medical condition.
  • Nursing interventions focused on promoting continence were implemented.
  • Continence training can help improve the quality of life for many seniors.
Context #2 | Noun

general behavior

In a broader context, continence refers to self-restraint or moderation in relation to desires and impulses. This concept is often discussed in ethical, philosophical, and religious contexts, emphasizing the importance of controlling one's passions and desires to achieve virtue.

Synonyms

discernment, self-control, self-restraint

Examples of usage

  • Practicing continence in one's eating habits can lead to better health.
  • Philosophers often debate the nature of continence and virtue.
  • Continence in relationships is important for building trust.

Translations

Translations of the word "continence" in other languages:

🇵🇹 continência

🇮🇳 संयम

🇩🇪 Enthaltsamkeit

🇮🇩 pengendalian

🇺🇦 стриманість

🇵🇱 wstrzemięźliwość

🇯🇵 自制 (じせい)

🇫🇷 continence

🇪🇸 continencia

🇹🇷 tutku

🇰🇷 절제

🇸🇦 اعتدال

🇨🇿 sebekontrola

🇸🇰 sebaovládanie

🇨🇳 克制 (kèzhì)

🇸🇮 zadržanost

🇮🇸 hald

🇰🇿 төзімділік

🇬🇪 განსაკუთრებული

🇦🇿 özünü idarə etmə

🇲🇽 continencia

Word origin

The word 'continence' comes from the Latin 'continentia', which means 'holding together, restraint'. This Latin term is derived from 'continere', which means 'to hold together, to restrain'. The concept of continence has been present in various philosophical traditions, often linked to self-control, virtue, and moral character. In medical terminology, the word began to be widely used in the 19th century to describe the ability to control bodily functions. Over time, it has also been applied to the context of emotional and psychological self-control in both clinical settings and philosophical discussions. The evolution of its use in the English language highlights the interplay between bodily health and moral character, shaping its multifaceted interpretations today.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,455, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.