incumbency

[in-kuhm-buhn-see]

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.

incumbency

/ ɪnˈkʌmbənsɪ /

noun

1. the state or quality of being incumbent

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of incumbency¹

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

Example Sentences

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

Read more on 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.

Read more on Salon

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

Read more on Salon

Cuomo, boasting universal name recognition and the sense, if not the reality, of incumbency from his 11 years as governor, is now what Barkan calls the "institutional" candidate.

Read more on Salon

While Democrats have traditionally respected seniority and incumbency in internal party conflicts, Hogg, a party official, announced a $20 million effort to primary sitting members of the House.

Read more on Salon