Incubate: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in both a biological and metaphorical sense. Biologically, it refers to maintaining eggs at a specific temperature to allow development. Metaphorically, it means to develop an idea or project over time.

• The farmer needs to incubate the eggs for 21 days.
• The scientist incubates the bacteria in a controlled environment.
• She incubated the business idea for months before presenting it.

Typically refers to the mating and production of offspring in animals or plants, usually under controlled conditions. Can sometimes have a negative connotation when referring to over-emphasis on certain traits.

• They breed horses on their farm.
• New hybrids are bred for better resistance to diseases.
• Such practices breed an unhealthy obsession with perfection.

Refers specifically to the process of an egg breaking open and an animal being born. Can also be used metaphorically for the beginning of an idea or plan.

• The eggs are expected to hatch in a week.
• Their plan began to hatch during a late-night conversation.
• The chicks hatched early this morning.

Commonly used in agriculture to describe preparing and using land to grow crops. It can also mean to develop a skill or quality. Metaphorically, it means to nurture or encourage growth.

• Farmers cultivate the land for the next planting season.
• She has cultivated a deep understanding of classical music.
• They cultivate a positive work environment.

Used when talking about creating the right conditions for growth, especially in biological or technological contexts. It often implies a controlled environment and a beginning stage.

• The scientist incubated the eggs in a controlled environment
• The startup incubator helped budding companies find their feet

Focuses on caring for and encouraging growth over time, often in emotional, personal, or educational contexts. It implies a tender, ongoing effort.

• She nurtured her garden with great care
• It's important to nurture young talent in the company

General term for making something grow or improve. It's versatile and can be used in various contexts like skills, projects, or relationships.

• She developed a new software application
• He developed his public speaking skills over time

Implies encouraging growth or development, usually through support and care. It is often used in social, educational, or emotional contexts.

• The teacher fostered a love of reading in her students
• They decided to foster a child

Used mostly in scientific contexts, especially when referring to the process of keeping something (like eggs or bacteria) at the right conditions for development.

• The scientists incubate the samples at a steady temperature.
• The mother bird incubates her eggs until they hatch.

Used when talking about thinking deeply or carefully about something, often in a serious or reflective manner.

• He pondered the meaning of life late into the night.
• She pondered for a moment before answering the question.

Informal way to describe thinking deeply and carefully about something, often used in everyday conversation.

• She needed some time to mull over his proposal.
• I will mull over your suggestion and let you know my decision.

Used to describe thinking deeply about something, often repeatedly or for a long time. It can sometimes have a negative connotation of overthinking.

• He ruminated on his past mistakes, trying to understand what went wrong.
• She tends to ruminate on her problems, which can keep her up at night.