Emily Dickinson Lexicon

IN-CUM'BEN-CY, n. [from incumbent.]

1. A lying or resting on something.
2. The state of holding or being in possession of a benefice, or of an office. These lines are to be paid to the bishop, only during his incumbency. Swift. There is no test of the tenure, but incumbency on the part of the king. E. Everett.