noun
incontinence
ihn-KON-tih-nuhns
Incontinence (noun) means the inability to control the bladder or bowels. Example: “After the surgery, he experienced mild incontinence for a few weeks.”
noun
1
The inability to control the bladder or bowels.
"After the surgery, he experienced mild incontinence for a few weeks."
2
A lack of self-restraint, especially over one's desires or emotions.
"The author criticised the politician's incontinence when it came to public spending."
How to use incontinence
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishMost commonly refers to losing control of the bladder or bowels; can also mean a general lack of self-control.
Common pairings
urinary incontinence
incontinence pads
suffer from incontinence
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Word forms
- Plural
- incontinences
Fill the gap
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After the surgery, he experienced mild _____ for a few weeks.
Etymology
From Old French incontinence, from Latin incontinentia, from in- ("not") plus continere ("to hold together, restrain").
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for incontinence
See all rhymes for incontinence →Frequently asked questions
What does “incontinence” mean?
The word “incontinence” means the inability to control the bladder or bowels. In plain terms, most commonly refers to losing control of the bladder or bowels; can also mean a general lack of self-control.
How do you pronounce “incontinence”?
“Incontinence” is pronounced ihn-KON-tih-nuhns (/ɪnˈkɒntɪnəns/ in IPA).
How do you use “incontinence” in a sentence?
Here is “incontinence” used in a sentence: “After the surgery, he experienced mild incontinence for a few weeks.”
What is the opposite of “incontinence”?
The opposite of “incontinence” — its antonyms — are continence and chastity.
What part of speech is “incontinence”?
“Incontinence” is a noun.
Where does the word “incontinence” come from?
The word “incontinence” comes from Latin. From Old French incontinence, from Latin incontinentia, from in- ("not") plus continere ("to hold together, restrain").
How many meanings does “incontinence” have?
“Incontinence” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the inability to control the bladder or bowels.
