Enuresis

/ˌɛnjʊˈriːsɪs/ noun

Definition

The involuntary discharge of urine, especially bedwetting in children who should be able to control their bladder.

Etymology

From Greek 'enouresis' (urinating in), composed of 'en-' (in) and 'ourein' (to urinate). The medical term was formalized in European medicine during the 18th century to replace shame-based folk terminology.

Kelly Says

Until surprisingly recently, children with enuresis were punished or humiliated, but modern sleep science discovered it's often linked to deep sleep and slow bladder development—completely involuntary, which transformed how we treat millions of kids.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.