Definition

The condition where a person cannot control their urination or defecation, leading to involuntary leakage of urine or feces.

Example

Many elderly people experience incontinence, which can be managed with the right treatment.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new support group for people dealing with incontinence?

No, I haven't! That sounds interesting.

Yeah, I think it's great that they're raising awareness about incontinence.

Absolutely! It's important for people to know they're not alone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Incontinence → It is formed from "in-" (meaning not) and "continent" (from Latin "continere", meaning to hold together or restrain). The word refers to the inability to hold or restrain bodily functions, hence not being continent.

Memory Tip

Think of 'not' ('in-') being able to 'hold' ('continent') something back — that's why incontinence means the inability to hold back bodily functions.

Visually Confused Words