1 : proper or rightly pertinent. 2 : having requisite or adequate ability or qualities : fit a competent teacher a competent piece of work. 3 : legally qualified or adequate a competent witness.

What is the full meaning of competent?

Full Definition of competence

1 : the quality or state of being competent: such as. a : the quality or state of having sufficient knowledge, judgment, skill, or strength (as for a particular duty or in a particular respect) No one denies her competence as a leader.

What are examples of competent?

The definition of competent is a person or thing that is qualified to do something or adequate for a specific purpose. An accountant with ten years of experience is an example of a competent accountant. A paring knife that has cut up all the salad vegetables is an example of a competent performance.