Dictionary
incompetence
noun in·com·pe·tence \(ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s\
: lack of the ability to do something well : the quality or state of not being competent
Full Definition of INCOMPETENCE
: the state or fact of being incompetent
See incompetence defined for English-language learners
See incompetence defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
First Known Use of INCOMPETENCE
1663
Related to INCOMPETENCE
- Synonyms
- impotence, inadequacy, incapability, incapacity, inability, incompetency, ineptitude, insufficiency, powerlessness
- Antonyms
- ability, adequacy, capability, capacity, competence, competency, potency
Other Legal Terms
INCOMPETENCE Defined for Kids
incompetence
noun in·com·pe·tence \in-ˈkäm-pə-təns\
Definition of INCOMPETENCE for Kids
: the inability to do a good job <… they were frustrated by their … own incompetence. — Jack London, The Call of the Wild>
Medical Dictionary
incompetence
noun in·com·pe·tence \(ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s\
Medical Definition of INCOMPETENCE
1
: lack of legal qualification
2
: inability of an organ or part to perform its function adequately <incompetence of an aortic valve>
Learn More About INCOMPETENCE
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: incompetencyPrevious Word in the Dictionary: incompatibleAll Words Near: incompetence
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up incompetence? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).