First Known Use: 1595
Dictionary
incompetent
adjective in·com·pe·tent \(ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tənt\
: lacking necessary ability or skills
law : not able to take part in a trial
Full Definition of INCOMPETENT
1
: not legally qualified
2
: inadequate to or unsuitable for a particular purpose
3
a : lacking the qualities needed for effective action b : unable to function properly <incompetent heart valves>
— incompetent noun
— in·com·pe·tent·ly adverb
See incompetent defined for English-language learners
See incompetent defined for kids
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Origin of INCOMPETENT
Middle French incompétent, from in- + compétent competent
Related to INCOMPETENT
Other Psychology Terms
INCOMPETENT Defined for Kids
incompetent
adjective in·com·pe·tent \in-ˈkäm-pə-tənt\
Definition of INCOMPETENT for Kids
: not able to do a good job
— in·com·pe·tent·ly adverb
Medical Dictionary
incompetent
adjective in·com·pe·tent \(ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ənt\
Medical Definition of INCOMPETENT
1
: not legally qualified; especially : incapable due to a mental or physical condition
2
: unable to function properly <incompetent heart valves>
—in·com·pe·tent·ly adverb
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