incumbency

American  

[in-kuhm-buhn-see] / ɪnˈkʌm bən si /

noun

plural

incumbencies

1. the quality or state of being incumbent.

2. the position or term of an incumbent.

3. something that is incumbent.

4. a duty or obligation.

   my incumbencies as head of the organization.

5. Archaic. an incumbent weight or mass.

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incumbency British  

/ ɪnˈkʌmbənsɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being incumbent

2. the office, duty, or tenure of an incumbent

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Etymology

Origin of incumbency

First recorded in 1600–10; incumb(ent) + -ency

Example Sentences

“Action from policy makers has been nonexistent, timid or ineffectual. In tandem, corporate Canada has become beset by contentment and incumbency.”

From The Wall Street Journal

Mr. Miyares, whose mother fled Cuba, has the advantage of incumbency.

From The Wall Street Journal

Jimmy Carter’s appearance became more diminutive during his incumbency, but his teeth became bigger; Ronald Reagan’s face went from smiling to hollowed and ghostly.

From Salon

Now in his 11th two-year term, Green’s de facto incumbency could be difficult for any newcomer to overcome.

From Salon

Sadhwani said she expects Steel to have the classic incumbency advantage, particularly given the Vietnamese community’s record of supporting the Republican Party.

From Los Angeles Times