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.
Neighborly Needs is a concern that sprang out of Naperville North’s business incubator program. Matt Le Cren, Chicago Tribune, 10 Feb. 2026 The project would have office space and a small business incubator, but the real amenities are 145 units of affordable and market-rate apartments, as well as a 13,000-square-foot grocery co-op store. Desiree Mathurin, Charlotte Observer, 10 Feb. 2026 The Marquee Club was an incubator of so much talent. Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 10 Feb. 2026 That and the sale of KVD Beauty to Windsong Global in September 2025 has raised questions in the industry regarding whether other beauty brands launched with LVMH’s incubator Kendo Brands, including Lip Lab and Ole Henriksen, might be on the block soon. Jennifer Weil, Footwear News, 9 Feb. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Incubator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/incubator. Accessed 16 Feb. 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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