incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˌ)in-ˈkäm-pə-tən(t)s 

: the state or fact of being incompetent

Synonyms of incompetence

• inability

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

The most serious charges — which included incompetence, negligence and failure of duty — were dismissed. — Alene Tchekmedyian, Los Angeles Times, 17 June 2026

There is where their incompetence comes in. — Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 16 June 2026

Officially, Honka was fired for incompetence and neglect of duty. — Logan Smith, CBS News, 15 June 2026

The ones who were around to see Walt Frazier and Willis Reed’s titles in 1970 and 1973 have stood by for more than half a century, along the way incurring the jeers that accompany telling anyone their favorite team is the go-to example of incompetence. — Fred Katz, New York Times, 14 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1663, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for incompetence

• competence

Kids Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

: the quality, state, or fact of being incompetent

Medical Definition

incompetence

noun

in·​com·​pe·​tence (ˈ)in-ˈkäm-pət-ən(t)s 

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 

: the state or fact of being incompetent compare competency