Continence

Definition of Continence

Con´ti`nence

n.	1.	Self-restraint; self-command. He knew what to say; he knew also, when to leave off, - a continence which is practiced by few writers. - Dryden.
	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. If they [the unmarried and widows] have not continency, let them marry. - 1 Cor. vii. 9 (Rev. Ver. ). Chastity is either abstinence or continence: abstinence is that of virgins or widows; continence, that of married persons. - Jer. Taylor.
	3.	Uninterrupted course; continuity.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z