Definition of Incumbent

What does the term incumbent mean? What is meant by the term incumbent?

The dictionary defines the term "incumbent" as being "the holder of an office" or "holding an indicated position".

In the 2012 US Presidential election, for instance, Barack Obama will be the incumbent, as he already holds the White House.

Example: John Smith is the current mayor of Smithville, USA.

If there is a mayoral election in Smithville and Smith decides that he wants to run again, then he will be the incumbent, as he is the person who currently holds the title of mayor.

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