# incontinence

/ˌɪnˈkɑntənəns/ (US) · /ɪnkˈɒntɪnəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/incontinence
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the inability to control your body's natural functions, such as urinating or passing gas. It is a medical condition that affects many people as they get older.

For teachers: the loss of voluntary control over the excretion of urine or faeces. Often used in clinical contexts to describe a symptom of various neurological or physical conditions.

## Examples

- The patient requires assistance with incontinence management.
- As the population ages, the demand for specialized products to manage urinary incontinence continues to rise.
- While occasional incontinence is common in young children, persistent issues in adults often signal underlying health problems that require immediate medical intervention and lifestyle adjustments.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.