2. That which is physically incumbent; that which lies as a burden; a
weight. Evelyn.
3. That which is morally incumbent, or is imposed, as a rule, a duty,
obligation, or responsibility. "The incumbencies of a family." Donne.
4. The state of holding a benefice; the full possession and exercise of
any office.
These fines are only to be paid to the bishop during his
incumbency.
Swift.
In*cum"bent (?), a. [L. incumbens, -entis, p. pr. of incumbere to lie
down upon, press upon; pref. in- in, on + cumbere (in comp.); akin to
cubare to lie down. See Incubate.]