Incubator
ˈɪŋkjuˌbeɪtər
Definitions
2 meaningsAn enclosed apparatus providing a controlled environment, typically for premature babies or biological cultures.
ˈɪŋkjuˌbeɪtər
A device used to maintain an optimal environment for growth and development, particularly for premature babies or eggs.
The hospital used a state-of-the-art incubator to care for the newborn.
💡 Simply: An incubator is like a warm, cozy, and super-safe box where tiny babies (or even tiny chicken eggs!) can grow and get stronger. It keeps things at the perfect temperature, so they can thrive.
👶 For kids: A special box that keeps babies warm and safe when they are born too early.
More Examples
The scientist placed the cell cultures in an incubator to control the temperature.
The incubator is equipped with a humidifier to keep the air moist.
How It's Used
"Premature infants are often placed in incubators to help them regulate their body temperature."
"Biologists use incubators to culture cells and microorganisms."
A supportive environment that facilitates growth and development.
ˈɪŋkjuˌbeɪtər
A place or environment that fosters development.
The city's innovation center served as an incubator for new technological ventures.
💡 Simply: It can also refer to a place or program that helps new ideas or businesses grow. Like, think of an incubator for baby animals, it provides the right environment for them to develop.
👶 For kids: A place where new ideas or businesses can grow and become strong.
More Examples
The community garden functioned as an incubator for local food production.
The university is launching an incubator for early-stage technology companies.
How It's Used
"The university provided an incubator for start-up companies."
"The art school was an incubator for young artists' talents."
From Latin *incubare* 'to lie on, brood over,' from *in-* 'in' + *cubare* 'to lie.' Originally referred to devices used to hatch eggs, its usage expanded to medical contexts.
Historically used to refer to devices for hatching eggs, with medical applications developing in the 19th century.
Memory tip
Think of a baby chicken being incubated in an incubator.