Incubate Meaning in English
word
Definition
To keep eggs, cells, or bacteria at the right conditions so they can develop and grow. Often used for eggs (to hatch), but also for developing ideas or cultures in science.
Usage & Nuances
'Incubate' is formal and scientific. It's common in biology (incubating eggs or bacteria). In business or creative contexts, it can mean to develop ideas before sharing them. Collocations: 'incubate eggs', 'incubate bacteria', 'incubate ideas'. Don't confuse with 'hatch' (emphasizes the act of emerging from the egg).
Example Sentences
The hen will incubate her eggs for about three weeks.
basic
Scientists incubate bacteria in special dishes.
basic
You must incubate the eggs at a constant temperature.
basic
Startup companies often incubate their ideas before going public.
natural
It takes time to properly incubate a scientific experiment.
natural
The amphibian eggs will only hatch if you incubate them carefully.
natural