What does incursion mean?
An incursion is a sudden entry into a place or territory, most often associated with an attack or raid by an opposing force. The word can also describe an unwelcome intrusion into a sphere of activity, such as a competitor's entry into a market or an invasion of privacy. Because “incursion” carries the implication of force, disruption, or unwelcome access, it is more dramatic and formal than terms such as visit or entry. Its military sense is the most common, while figurative uses are especially prominent in journalism, business, politics, and discussions of privacy. Etymologically, the word derives from Latin incumbere or, more immediately, incursio, associated with currere, meaning “to run.” This literal idea of running into enemy territory helps explain its enduring association with raids and invasions.
nounA sudden entry into a place or territory, especially by an attacking force. By extension, it refers to an intrusion into someone's privacy, activity, or area of concern.
- A sudden and usually hostile entry into a place or territory, particularly by armed forces.
- An unwelcome or unauthorized intrusion into a domain, activity, or private sphere.
"The border guards responded quickly to the suspected incursion."
"A small enemy force made a dawn incursion across the border."
"The new technology represents an unwelcome incursion into the privacy of remote workers."
The plural is formed by adding -s to the singular form.
"Repeated incursions by smugglers forced the authorities to increase patrols."
Incursion comes from the Latin verb currere, “to run”: its original military sense was literally a running into enemy territory.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does incursion come from?
The word comes from Latin incursio, a noun derived from the verb incurrere, meaning “to run into” or “to attack.” The element in- expresses motion inward, while currere means “to run.” English borrowed the word in the 16th century for military attacks or raids, and later extended it to figurative acts of intrusion.
Related word forms
How incursion is actually used
The word has a formal or journalistic tone and is more forceful than a simple unexpected visit. In figurative use, it generally conveys unwelcome encroachment.
Easily confused with incursion
An incursion is an intrusion or attack into a place, whereas an excursion is primarily a journey or organized trip undertaken for pleasure or a special purpose.
An incursion often emphasizes a sudden, forceful entry, while intrusion more broadly means unauthorized entry into a place, sphere, or private space.