incubator

noun

in·​cu·​ba·​tor ˈiŋ-kyə-ˌbā-tər How to pronounce incubator (audio)
ˈin-
: one that incubates: such as
a
: an apparatus by which eggs are hatched artificially
b
: an apparatus with a chamber used to provide controlled environmental conditions especially for the cultivation of microorganisms or the care and protection of premature or sick babies
c
: an organization or place that aids the development of new business ventures especially by providing low-cost commercial space, management assistance, or shared services

Examples of incubator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Lichen, a Ridgewood design shop and incubator, put on an intriguing survey of incense burners during design week. Anthony Paletta, Curbed, 23 May 2026 The SoHo Shops at Town Center, a retail incubator project designed to allow small business owners to test the experience of running a brick-and-mortar location, held a grand opening Friday with its first set of 10 participating businesses. Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 22 May 2026 According to The New York Post, the artificial egg is compatible with standard incubators and could potentially support eggs as large as those laid by moa birds. Sophia Compton, FOXNews.com, 19 May 2026 For producer Pedro Krull at Aguda Cinema, the project is emblematic of a wider regional surge, with the company positioning itself as a creative incubator for emerging Alagoas voices. Callum McLennan, Variety, 19 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for incubator

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of incubator was in 1857

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Cite this Entry

“Incubator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incubator. Accessed 28 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

incubator

noun
in·​cu·​ba·​tor ˈiŋ-kyə-ˌbāt-ər How to pronounce incubator (audio)
ˈin-
: one that incubates
especially : a piece of equipment providing suitable conditions (as of warmth and moisture) for incubating something
an incubator for premature babies

Medical Definition

incubator

noun
in·​cu·​ba·​tor ˈiŋ-kyə-ˌbāt-ər, ˈin- How to pronounce incubator (audio)
: one that incubates
especially : an apparatus with a chamber used to provide controlled environmental conditions especially for the cultivation of microorganisms or the care and protection of premature or sick babies

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