Incumbent

Noun

Definition: The current holder of an office or position.

Synonyms: Officeholder, Current officeholder, Holder, Occupant

Antonyms: Successor, Challenger, Opposition

Examples:

The incumbent president is running for re-election.
The incumbent mayor has served for two terms.

Mnemonics:

Think of the "cumb" sound in incumbent as "come" - the current person holding the position.

Adjective

Definition: Currently holding an office or position.

Synonyms: Current, Present, Ruling, Reigning

Antonyms: Former, Previous, Outgoing, Non-incumbent

Examples:

The incumbent senator has been in office for ten years.
The incumbent CEO is leading the company to new heights.

Mnemonics:

"Incumbent" sounds like "in-come" - the current person coming into the role.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "incumbent" comes from the Latin word "incumbentem" which means "a person holding office."

Historical Usage:

The term "incumbent" has been used since the early 17th century to refer to the current holder of an office or position.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Incumbent upon"

Explanation:

This phrase often means that someone has a responsibility or obligation to do something. For example, "It is incumbent upon the president to make decisions in the best interest of the country."

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "incumbent" with "candidate."

Explanation:

An incumbent is the current officeholder, while a candidate is someone who is running for an office but does not currently hold it.