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

Preliminary estimates from the Department of Agriculture suggest the one-two punch may incur more than $7 billion in crop insurance payouts.

From Salon

Plus, signing up for automatic payments will ensure that you don't incur a late fee, which is even more important.

From Salon

As you may know, you don’t have to incur a qualified medical expense in the same year you take an HSA withdrawal for the distribution to be tax free.

From Los Angeles Times

Unlike in 2017, when several cities were exempt from the increase because their rates were already at the maximum sales tax set by state law, all counties in Los Angeles County will incur at least a 0.25% increase.

From Los Angeles Times

Organising concerts is tough, as they often incur losses, so when the opportunity arises, bankable performers are exploited for profits.

From BBC

Related Words

• acquire
• arouse
• earn
• obtain
• provoke