Definitions

1. noun

A person holding a particular office, position, or title; especially, a person who holds an elected office, such as a member of parliament or a government official, until they are replaced or defeated in an election.

“The incumbent president is expected to address the nation tonight.”

2. verb

To hold or be in a particular office, position, or title, especially an elected one.

“He has been incumbent in the mayor’s office for over a decade.”

3. adjective

Belonging to or characteristic of an office or position that has not yet been replaced or defeated in an election.

“The incumbent party has been in power for several years.”