Incidence

/ˈɪn.sɪ.dəns/

Meaning & Definition

noun

The occurrence, rate, or frequency of a phenomenon, particularly regarding a particular condition or disease.

The incidence of diabetes has been rising in recent years.

The angle at which a ray of light or other radiation meets a surface.

The incidence of sunlight is crucial for photosynthesis in plants.

The event of something happening, especially in relation to a specific context.

The incidence of crime in the area has decreased significantly this year.

Late Middle English: from Latin 'incidens', from 'incidere' meaning 'to fall upon, to happen'.

low incidence

A lower frequency or occurrence of a particular event.

high incidence

A greater frequency or occurrence of a particular event.

incidence rate

The rate at which new cases of a disease occur in a population.

incident

An event that occurs, often unexpectedly.

accident

An unintentional event that results in damage or injury.

occurrence

An instance of something happening.