incontinence
UK: ɪnˈkɒntɪnəns | US: ɪnˈkɑːntɪnəns
n. inability to control bodily functions, especially urination or defecation
n. lack of self-restraint or moderation
incontinence = in<not> + contin<hold> + ence<noun suffix>
- in<not>: Latin prefix meaning "not" or "without."
- contin<hold>: From Latin continēre ("to hold together, restrain"), combining con- (together) + tenēre (to hold).
- ence<noun suffix>: Forms abstract nouns indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin incontinentia, from in- (negation) + continentia ("restraint," from continēre). It originally described a lack of self-control, later narrowing to medical contexts (e.g., bladder/bowel control). The root tenēre (to hold) appears in many English words (e.g., "contain," "retain"), reflecting the idea of restraint or cohesion.
Aging can sometimes lead to urinary incontinence.
His financial incontinence left him in debt.
The doctor recommended exercises to manage her incontinence.
Incontinence pads are essential for some elderly patients.
The novel explores the moral incontinence of its protagonist.