n. & adj.
--n.
1. a an event or occurrence. b a minor or detached event attracting general attention or noteworthy in some way.
2 a hostile clash, esp. of troops of countries at war (a frontier incident).
3 a distinct piece of action in a play or a poem.
4 Law a privilege, burden, etc., attaching to an obligation or right.
--adj.
1. a (often foll. by to) apt or liable to happen; naturally attaching or dependent. b (foll. by to) Law attaching to.
2 (often foll. by on, upon) (of light etc.) falling or striking.
Etymology: ME f. F incident or L incidere (as IN-(2), cadere fall)