Incident Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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incident

[ˈɪnsɪd(ə)nt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

during an event

An incident is an event or occurrence, typically involving a relatively minor or serious issue. It can refer to a specific happening or event that is of significance or importance. Incidents can vary in nature and can range from accidents to conflicts or disputes.

Synonyms

event, happening, occurrence, situation.

Examples of usage

  • The incident at the concert caused chaos among the audience.
  • There was a minor incident at the store involving a customer and an employee.
  • The police were called to investigate the incident at the park.
Context #2 | Noun

involving wrongdoing

An incident can also refer to an act of wrongdoing or misconduct. It is often used in the context of a negative or undesirable event, such as a crime, violation, or unethical behavior.

Synonyms

misconduct, offense, violation, wrongdoing.

Examples of usage

  • The company faced a scandal after the incident of corruption was uncovered.
  • His behavior towards his colleagues was considered an incident of harassment.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'incident'

The word 'incident' originated from the Latin word 'incident-' which means 'falling upon' or 'happening'. It entered the English language in the late 15th century with the meaning of 'something that occurs casually in connection with something else'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass a broader range of events and occurrences, both positive and negative.


See also: incidence, incidental, incidentally, incidents.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,618, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.