continence

noun

Etymology: Dated from the 14th century as Middle English contynence, from Old French continence, from Latin continentia (“a repression”). See also countenance.

1. The voluntary control of urination and defecation.

   “To maintain continence, the puborectalis muscle chokes the anal canal. The sling of tissue is supposed to release during defecation. Mine has not been doing that.”

2. Moderation or self-restraint, especially in sexual activity; abstinence.

   “For quotations using this term, see Citations:continence.”

   “He knew what to say; he knew also, when to leave off, — a continence which is practised by few writers.”

3. Uninterrupted course; continuity.

   “the Continence of the Cause should be divided”