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.

--

Davemanuel.com Articles That Mention Incumbent:

President Reagan vs Walter Mondale: The Story of The 1984 US Presidential Massacre

The Three Presidential Elections Where Somebody Won 500+ Electoral Votes

Why Were There No Presidential Debates in 1964, 1968 and 1972?

The 1820 US Presidential Election: The Last Time (Probably Ever) That There Was An Uncontested Winner

A Look Back at Ronald Reagan's Dominant Victory in the 1980 Republican Presidential Primaries