competency

noun

com·​pe·​ten·​cy ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)-sē 

plural competencies

1

: competence: such as

a

: possession of sufficient knowledge or skill

Dr. Polidoro was cited for his outstanding contributions to the profession, his professional … competency … and dedication.

—Rhode Island

At length horrible doubts overtake him as to the captain's competency to navigate his ship.

—Herman Melville

b

: legal authority, ability, or admissibility

They evaluated the defendant's competency to stand trial.

2

: a specific area of competence

A "meister," or master, who works with the student at the jobsite will then be able to check off when an apprentice has achieved certain competencies.

—Lynn Olson

I have always believed businesses that concentrate on a very few core competencies will do the best.

—Bill Gates

When coming up with a list of different industries, positions, and professions to which your skills could transfer, the key is to think in terms of your core competencies.

—John A. Challenger

Synonyms

• ability
• capacity
• capability
• competence

Examples of competency in a Sentence

Critics have questioned the director's competency.

she's proved that she has the competency to run a major company

Recent Examples on the Web

As industries prioritize specific competencies over traditional credentials, post-secondary education must adapt to remain impactful. —Michael Hansen, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025

One of those regulations halts state guidelines for teacher preparation to include training on social-emotional learning, cultural competency and restorative justice. —Carole Carlson, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2025

Among those plans was Ragusa’s suggestion that the department conduct another audit to measure the competency of the department’s paramedics and EMTs. —Mike Hendricks, Kansas City Star, 25 June 2025

Certification boards ensure ongoing professional competency through standardized exams and continuing education requirements. —Web Golinkin, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025

Word History

Etymology

see competent

First Known Use

1600, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for competency

• incompetency

Kids Definition

competency

noun

com·​pe·​ten·​cy ˈkäm-pət-ən-sē 

: competence

Medical Definition

competency

noun

com·​pe·​ten·​cy -ən-sē 

plural competencies

: competence

Legal Definition

competency

noun

com·​pe·​ten·​cy ˈkäm-pə-tən-sē 

1

: the quality or state of being mentally competent compare capacity, incompetence, insanity

2

: the quality or state of being legally qualified or adequate

the competency, quantum and legal effect of evidence

—State v. Scoggin, 72 S.E.2d 54 (1952)