The loan demonstrates, in regard to instrumental
resources, the competency of this kingdom to the
assertion of the common cause. --Burke.
To make them act zealously is not in the competence
of law. --Burke.
2. Property or means sufficient for the necessaries and
conveniences of life; sufficiency without excess.
Reason's whole pleasure, all the joys of sense, Lie
in three words -- health, peace, and competence.
--Pope.
Superfluity comes sooner by white hairs, but
competency lives longer. --Shak.
3. (Law)
(a) Legal capacity or qualifications; fitness; as, the
competency of a witness or of a evidence.
(b) Right or authority; legal power or capacity to take
cognizance of a cause; as, the competence of a judge
or court. --Kent.