Definition of "incident" in English

noun

1. (countable, uncountable) An event or occurrence.

   • She could not recall the time of the incident.
   • It was an incident that he hoped to forget.
   • The suspect was released without further incident.

2. A (relatively minor) event that is incidental to, or related to others.

3. An event that causes or may cause an interruption or a crisis, such as a workplace illness or a software error.

adjective

1. Arising as the result of an event, inherent.

   • No major hazards incident to this job.

2. (physics, of a stream of particles or radiation) Falling on or striking a surface.

   • The incident light illuminated the surface.

3. Coming or happening accidentally; not in the usual course of things; not in connection with the main design; not according to expectation; casual; fortuitous.

4. Liable to happen; apt to occur; befalling; hence, naturally happening or appertaining.

   • 17th century, Richard Milward, "Preface" to Seldeniana the studies incident to his profession

5. (law) Dependent upon, or appertaining to, another thing, called the principal.

6. (mathematics) In a relation of incidence