PoliticsAugust 16, 2026

incumbent

in-KUM-bent

Definition

Currently holding a specified political office or position.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin word 'incumbere', meaning 'to lean or lie upon,' which evolved to mean someone resting or holding a position of responsibility.

In the news

The article identifies Ademola Adeleke as the incumbent governor, meaning he is the person who held the office while seeking reelection in the recent vote.

INEC Declares Ademola Adeleke Winner of Osun State Governorship Election

Read the full article ↗

Head Topics

Related words

Learn a word like this every day

Meet one new word every morning.

Newspoken pulls one carefully chosen word from the day’s news — with a clear definition, context, and light review that makes it stick. Get it on your phone.