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

No one else but the working class has any money or a job to pay for the city’s incompetence. —Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 1 Mar. 2026

If only there were an influential sitcom about the culture of incompetence and ass-covering in British institutions! —Nate Jones, Vulture, 27 Feb. 2026

As for the district admininistrative employees, one was allowed to resign at her leisure, without consequences, and others remain employed despite their incompetence. —Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 19 Feb. 2026

Why did incompetence feel like the right way in? —Kennedy French, Variety, 18 Feb. 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