CONTINENCE

Meaning

The voluntary control of urination and defecation.

Etymology

Origin: Middle English

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

Synonyms & Antonyms

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 5 recorded puzzles:

• 2025-10-15OCEIJNT
• 2025-07-04CEOIFNT
• 2025-01-22TXCOIEN
• 2024-07-14ICEJNOT
• 2023-07-18ICXTOEN