incumbency

[ in-kuhm-buhn-see ]

noun

, plural in·cum·ben·cies

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

Sadhwani said she expects Steel to have the classic incumbency advantage, particularly given the Vietnamese community’s record of supporting the Republican Party.

From Los Angeles Times

Hope would have seemed absurd as a Biden slogan, not just because of his incumbency but because of his decades-long membership in the old guard of American politics.

From Los Angeles Times

Biden is bearing the burden of incumbency that he didn’t face four years ago, facing a tough-love approach from some left-leaning activists who believe they can still push him further left.

From Los Angeles Times

The winner of the special election will have the benefit of incumbency in the November election for a full term representing the southern end of the Central Valley in the next congressional session.

From New York Times

That, along with the advantages of incumbency and fundraising hauls that have far surpassed their challengers, could give each of them an edge on Tuesday.

From Seattle Times