competency
UK: ˈkɒmpɪtənsi | US: ˈkɑːmpɪtənsi
n. the ability to do something successfully or efficiently
n. a specific skill or knowledge area required for a task
n. legal authority or jurisdiction (rare usage)
competency = compete<strive> + ency<noun suffix>
- compete: From Latin competere ("to strive together, meet, agree"), combining com- (together) + petere (to aim, seek).
- ency: A noun-forming suffix derived from Latin -entia, indicating a state or quality (e.g., "efficiency," "urgency").
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin competentia, meaning "agreement" or "proportionality." Over time, it evolved to emphasize the idea of being adequately qualified or capable (16th century). The root petere (to seek) reflects the proactive effort inherent in "competency," while -ency abstracts it into a measurable quality.
Her technical competency made her the top candidate for the engineering role.
The training program aims to improve employees' core competencies.
Legal competency is required to sign binding contracts.
The committee questioned his competency to lead the project.
Cultural competency is essential for effective global teamwork.