Incident

Definition

Incident is a noun that refers to an event or occurrence, especially one that is unusual, important, or disruptive. It can also refer to an action likely to lead to grave consequences. As an adjective (less common), it means "occurring as a minor or secondary accompaniment."

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪnsɪdənt/
• Respelling: IN-sih-dent

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈɪnsɪdənt/
• Respelling: IN-sih-dent

Etymology

The word "incident" originates from the Latin "incidere," meaning "to fall into" or "to happen," derived from "in-" (into) and "cadere" (to fall). It entered Middle English through Old French "incident," maintaining its connotation of an event or occurrence.

Derivatives

• Incidental (adjective)
• Incidentally (adverb)
• Incident-free (adjective)
• Non-incident (noun/adjective)
• Reincident (adjective, rare)

Synonyms

• Event
• Occurrence
• Episode

Antonyms

• Nonevent
• Normality
• Routine

Usage

The term "incident" is commonly used in reports, narratives, or discussions to describe noteworthy events. For example, "The police were called to the scene of the incident," or "The meeting was uneventful, with no major incidents to report."

Related Terms

• Accident: An unplanned or unexpected event, often resulting in damage or injury.
• Situation: A set of circumstances in which one finds oneself.
• Occurrence: The fact or frequency of something happening.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• An event or occurrence, especially one that is noteworthy or unusual: Refers to something that happens and draws attention.
  • Example: "The security team responded to the incident promptly."
• A minor conflict or event that may have consequences: Describes something potentially serious or disruptive.
  • Example: "The incident between the two countries escalated tensions."

Adjective

• Occurring as a minor or secondary accompaniment: Indicates something that occurs alongside a main event.
  • Example: "The incident details were included in the appendix."