incumbency

noun

in·​cum·​ben·​cy in-ˈkəm-bən(t)-sē How to pronounce incumbency (audio)
plural incumbencies
Synonyms of incumbencynext
1
: the sphere of action or period of office of an incumbent
Many jobs were created during her incumbency.
2
: the quality or state of being incumbent
the advantage of incumbency in an election
3
: something that is incumbent : duty
occupational incumbencies

Synonyms of incumbency

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Examples of incumbency in a Sentence

Hundreds of new jobs were created during her incumbency. the advantages of incumbency during an election a politician seeking to keep his incumbency
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
How much weight does incumbency carry? — Philip Elliott, Time, 10 June 2026 But Maine and Alaska are these outlying states, very different than the rest of the map, based off of media market, based off of incumbency and the particulars of the states. — ABC News, 31 May 2026 But presidential results are a useful lens because of their high turnout and ability to offer a clearer view of partisan trends than congressional elections, which can be highly influenced by incumbency. — Ashley Wu, New York Times, 18 May 2026 The upcoming election may influence the council’s decision, as appointing someone who plans to run in 2027 could give the candidate an incumbency advantage. — Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for incumbency

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1608, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of incumbency was circa 1608

Rhymes for incumbency

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Browse Nearby Words

incumbence
incumbency
incumbent
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Cite this Entry

“Incumbency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incumbency. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

incumbency

noun
in·​cum·​ben·​cy in-ˈkəm-bən-sē How to pronounce incumbency (audio)
plural incumbencies
: the time during which a person holds an office or position

More from Merriam-Webster on incumbency

Nglish: Translation of incumbency for Spanish Speakers

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