Definitions

1. noun

The process or state of keeping eggs or young animals warm in order to hatch or mature, or a period of development or gestation.

“The chick hatched after a period of incubation in the nest.”

2. noun

A period of time when an idea, project, or business is nurtured or developed, especially in a way that is carefully planned or controlled.

“The new startup required a long incubation period before it became profitable.”

3. noun

A place or institution where eggs or young animals are kept to hatch or mature, or a place where new ideas or projects are developed.

“The incubation center provided a safe environment for the eggs to hatch.”