incidence

in·ci·dence

noun \ˈin(t)-sə-dən(t)s, -ˌden(t)s\

Definition of INCIDENCE

1

a : angle of incidence b : the arrival of something (as a projectile or a ray of light) at a surface

2

a : an act or the fact or manner of falling upon or affecting : occurrence b : rate of occurrence or influence <a high incidence of crime>

Examples of INCIDENCE

1. an increased incidence of diabetes
2. a high incidence of criminal behavior

First Known Use of INCIDENCE

1626