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

Federal authorities have said 140 police officers were assaulted and millions of dollars in damage incurred.

From Los Angeles Times

In practicality, many importers incur these costs themselves and then pass some of these costs onto consumers so that these businesses can maintain healthy profit margins.

From Salon

This is effectively an anti-dilution fund, to compensate the other 10 teams for the loss of prize money they would incur if the money had to be distributed 11 ways rather than 10.

From BBC

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

Related Words

• acquire
• arouse
• earn
• obtain
• provoke