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.
Still, the movie does at times rely on convenient incompetence. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 4 Sep. 2026 The Reds demonstrate their incompetence once again by allowing Reacher and Green to disarm them and start swinging. — Chris Klimek, Vulture, 2 Sep. 2026 Timidity dissolves into might, selfishness gives place to broad-reaching love, incompetence is replaced with obedience to God’s perfect direction. — The Christian Science Monitor, Christian Science Monitor, 2 Sep. 2026 Before being retitled to Idiots, the film’s original title of The Shitheads wasn’t just a reference to Mark and Davis’ gross incompetence at life. — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 28 Aug. 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
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Incompetence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incompetence. Accessed 5 Sep. 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
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