incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
Synonyms of incompetencenext
: the state or fact of being incompetent

Synonyms of incompetence

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Examples of incompetence in a Sentence

Because of his incompetence, we won't make our deadline. She was fired for gross incompetence.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
It’s been a classic staple over decades of British comedy, which from Basil Fawlty to David Brent has rejoiced in puncturing pomposity to reveal idiocy and incompetence. — Alex Ritman, Variety, 7 Aug. 2026 Leaders often face dangerous blind spots, not from incompetence, but from strengths like confidence and decisiveness becoming liabilities. — Julian Hayes Ii, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 Trump’s incompetence throughout this vendetta against Comey is perhaps its most welcome aspect. — Jonathan Chait, The Atlantic, 30 July 2026 In an April 2025 meeting, FCMAT CEO Mike Fine said a two-month financial investigation found the district’s problems stemmed from poor budget development and management, incompetence and staff behavior. — Velvet Wu july 25, Sacbee.com, 25 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for incompetence

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of incompetence was in 1663

Rhymes for incompetence

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Browse Nearby Words

incompatible
incompetence
incompetency
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Cite this Entry

“Incompetence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incompetence. Accessed 14 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

incompetence

noun
in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
: the quality, state, or fact of being incompetent

Medical Definition

incompetence

noun
in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
1
: lack of legal qualification
2
: inability of an organ or part to perform its function adequately
incompetence of an aortic valve

Legal Definition

incompetence

noun
in·​com·​pe·​tence in-ˈkäm-pə-təns How to pronounce incompetence (audio)
: the state or fact of being incompetent compare competency

More from Merriam-Webster on incompetence

Nglish: Translation of incompetence for Spanish Speakers

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