1. the process of keeping eggs warm so that they develop and hatch
2. the period between infection with a disease and the appearance of symptoms
Usage: medical
3. the process of developing or nurturing an idea, plan, or project in its early stages

Examples

• The incubation period for chicken eggs is about 21 days.
• Birds take turns during the incubation of their eggs.
• The incubation period for the flu is typically one to four days.
• After exposure to the virus, incubation can last up to two weeks.
• The startup spent months in incubation before launching.
• The incubation of new business ideas requires patience and resources.
• The research project is still in its incubation phase.