Definition

The process of keeping something in a controlled environment to help it develop, especially in medicine for infections or for premature babies.

Example

The doctor monitored the incubation of the virus to understand its effects better.

Conversation

Did you hear about the baby penguins at the zoo?

Yeah! They said the incubation process for their eggs took quite a while.

It's fascinating how long it can take for them to hatch.

I know, right? Nature is amazing in how it cares for its young.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Incubation → It is formed from "in-" (meaning in or on) and "cubare" (meaning to lie down). The word refers to the process of lying on or in something, particularly in the context of hatching eggs or developing something under controlled conditions.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lying down' ('cubare') in a warm place ('in-') to help something grow or develop, like eggs hatching.

Visually Confused Words