'Continence' definitions:

Definition of 'continence'

(from WordNet)
noun
The exercise of self constraint in sexual matters [syn: continence, continency]
noun
Voluntary control over urinary and fecal discharge

Definition of 'Continence'

From: GCIDE
  • Continence \Con"ti*nence\, Continency \Con"ti*nen*cy\, n. [F. continence, L. continentia. See Continent, and cf. Countenance.]
  • 1. Self-restraint; self-command. [1913 Webster]
  • He knew what to say; he knew also, when to leave off, -- a continence which is practiced by few writers. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
  • 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. [1913 Webster]
  • If they [the unmarried and widows] have not continency, let them marry. --1 Cor. vii. 9 (Rev. Ver. ). [1913 Webster]
  • Chastity is either abstinence or continence: abstinence is that of virgins or widows; continence, that of married persons. --Jer. Taylor. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. Uninterrupted course; continuity. [Obs.] --Ayliffe. [1913 Webster]