NYT Dictionary

COMPETENCE

/ˈkɑm.pə.təns/
NounCOM-pe-tencecom-pe-tence · 3 syllablesGrade 9

Accepted in official NYT Spelling Bee puzzle years: 2018, 2019, 2023

Meaning

The quality or state of being competent, i.e. able or suitable for a general role.

Etymology

Origin: Latin

Borrowed from Middle French compétence, from Late Latin competentia. Doublet of competency.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

abilitycompetencynoussavoir-faireknackaptitudeabsolutismabundanceaddressairmanship

Antonyms

inabilityineptitudeincompetence

NYT Puzzle Appearances

Accepted in 1 recorded puzzle, including a pangram:

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