incapacity

noun

in·​ca·​pac·​i·​ty ˌin-kə-ˈpa-sə-tē How to pronounce incapacity (audio)
-ˈpa-stē
plural incapacities
: the quality or state of being incapable
especially : lack of physical or intellectual power or of natural or legal qualifications

Examples of incapacity in a Sentence

I'm aware of my weaknesses and incapacities. her entrenched incapacity for decision-making doesn't make her a very good boss
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some readily agree and allow more flexibility for determining incapacity. Carolyn Rosenblatt, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025 Their proposal includes allowing the College of Cardinals to oversee governance during a temporary incapacity and convening a medical commission to assess the pope's health. Mark Joseph, Newsweek, 24 Feb. 2025 The incapacity to proceed statute in North Carolina doesn’t expressly prevent applying it retroactively, Emry argues. Kallie Cox, Charlotte Observer, 17 Jan. 2025 Then-Secretary of State Robert Lansing invoked Article II, Section 1 of the Constitution, which provides for the vice president to assume presidential duties in cases of incapacity. Richard Menger Md Mpa, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for incapacity

Word History

Etymology

French incapacité, from Middle French, from in- + capacité capacity

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of incapacity was in 1611

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Incapacity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incapacity. Accessed 16 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

incapacity

noun
in·​ca·​pac·​i·​ty ˌin-kə-ˈpas-ət-ē How to pronounce incapacity (audio)
-ˈpas-tē
plural incapacities
: lack of ability or power

Legal Definition

incapacity

noun
in·​ca·​pac·​i·​ty ˌin-kə-ˈpa-sə-tē How to pronounce incapacity (audio)
plural incapacities
1
: the quality or state of being incapable
especially : lack of legal qualifications due to age or mental condition compare capacity
2
: the inability of an injured worker to perform the duties required in a job for which he or she is qualified compare disability sense 1

More from Merriam-Webster on incapacity

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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