incumbent

UK: ɪnˈkʌmbənt | US: ɪnˈkʌmbənt

Definition

  1. n. 1. The current holder of a political office or position.

  2. n. 2. A person who is legally obligated to fulfill a duty or role.

  3. adj. 3. Necessary as a duty or responsibility.

Structure
in <upon>cumb <lie>ent <adjective suffix>
Etymology

incumbent = in<upon> + cumb<lie> + ent<adjective suffix>

  • in (Latin: "upon, in")
  • cumb (Latin: "lie," from cumbere, related to lying down or resting)
  • ent (adjective suffix indicating state or quality)

Etymology Origin:
The word "incumbent" originates from Latin incumbere ("to lie upon, lean on"), combining in- (upon) + -cumbere (to lie). It initially described physical leaning or pressure, later evolving metaphorically to denote legal or moral obligations "resting upon" a person. By the 15th century, it acquired its modern sense of an officeholder "lying in" their position.

Examples

  1. The incumbent mayor announced plans for urban renewal.

  2. It is incumbent upon all citizens to vote.

  3. The incumbent faced strong opposition in the election.

  4. She felt incumbent to address the team's concerns.

  5. The incumbent CEO resigned after a decade of service.