Incontinent

/ˌɪn.kənˈtɪn.ənt/

Meaning & Definition

adjective

Not able to control urination or defecation.

The elderly patient was incontinent and required assistance with daily activities.

Lacking self-restraint or control; uncontrolled.

He was incontinent in his desires, pursuing every whim without considering the consequences.

Related to the inability to hold or contain bodily fluids.

The incontinent dog had to wear special protective garments when indoors.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin 'incontinent-' (stem of 'incontinentia') meaning 'unrestrained', from 'in-' meaning 'not' + 'continere' meaning 'to contain'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

incontinent laughter

Uncontrolled or inappropriate laughter.

Related Words

continence

The ability to control bodily functions.

continence training

Techniques used to help individuals gain control over urination or defecation.

incontinence pads

Absorbent pads used to manage urinary incontinence.

Slang Meanings

Having no control over one's actions or impulses.

After the wild party, he was called incontinent for how he let loose.