incur

[ in-kur ]

verb (used with object)

, in·curred, in·cur·ring.

1. to come into or acquire (some consequence, usually undesirable or injurious):

   to incur a huge number of debts.

2. to become liable or subject to through one's own action; bring or take upon oneself:

   to incur his displeasure.

   Synonyms: provoke, incite, arouse

incur

/ ɪnˈkɜː /

verb

1. to make oneself subject to (something undesirable); bring upon oneself
2. to run into or encounter

Derived Forms

• inˈcurrable, adjective

Other Words From

• in·cur·ra·ble adjective
• re·in·cur verb (used with object) reincurred reincurring

Word History and Origins

Origin of incur¹

First recorded in 1400–50; late Middle English, from Latin incurrere “to run into, come upon,” equivalent to in- in- ² + currere “to run”; current

Word History and Origins

Origin of incur¹

C16: from Latin incurrere to run into, from currere to run

Example Sentences

Trump, the film shows, does not accomplish much on his own, other than begging favors and incurring debts.

From Salon

The luxury department store said Dame Jasvinder's appointment was an extension of its claims process which "includes counselling as well as payment of all reasonable legal fees incurred by claimants".

From BBC

The settlement will fund a $35,000 award for the employee who filed the complaint, and cover the costs that will be incurred to notify current and former employees who may be entitled to money.

From Los Angeles Times

Liability coverage is for losses that the insured person is legally responsible for, such as medical expenses incurred when you are at fault, said Janet Ruiz, director of strategic communication for the Insurance Information Institute.

From Los Angeles Times

Those working the sea were impacted as well; clam farmers along the Gulf Coast are grappling with the losses they incurred when Helene's storm surge ravaged their stocks.

From Salon

Related Words

• acquire
• arouse
• earn
• obtain
• provoke