Definition of "incumbent" in English

adjective

1. Chiefly followed by on or upon: leaning, or lying, reclining, or resting, on something else.

2. Being the current holder of an office or a title; specifically (Christianity, obsolete), of an ecclesiastical benefice.

   • If the incumbent senator dies, he is replaced by a person appointed by the governor.

3. Oppressive, pressuring.

4. Followed by on or upon: imposed on one as an obligation, especially due to one's office or position.

   • Proper behaviour is incumbent on all holders of positions of trust.

5. Hanging or leaning over.

6. Putting much effort into an activity or some work.

7. Weighing on one's mind.

noun

1. The current holder of an office or title; (specifically, Christianity) the holder of an ecclesiastical benefice.

2. (business) A holder of a position as supplier to a market or market segment that allows the holder to earn above-normal profits.