1. kept (eggs) warm so that they develop and hatch
2. kept (bacteria, cells, or other microorganisms) at a suitable temperature for growth and development
Usage: scientific
3. developed slowly over time
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The hen incubated her eggs for three weeks.
• Scientists incubated the bacterial samples at 37 degrees Celsius.
• The research team incubated the cell cultures in a sterile environment.
• She incubated her business idea for months before launching.
• The disease was incubated in the laboratory for study.
• Birds naturally incubated their eggs by sitting on them.
• The startup incubated innovative technologies in their lab.