Incubation Meaning
/ɪnkjuːˈbeɪʃən/Definition, CEFR level C1, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounSitting on eggs for the purpose of hatching young; a brooding on, or keeping warm, to develop the life within, by any process.
nounThe development of a disease from its causes, or the period of such development.
Sentence Examples
What is the incubation period?
The incubation period can take up to two weeks.
CEFR Practice Quiz
The ____ period for chicken eggs is about 21 days in a heated nest.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The ____ period for the flu is usually about two days before any symptoms begin to appear.
Word Origin & History
From Latin incubātiō, from incubō (“to lie on”).
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"1829, A Practical Synopsis of Cutaneous Diseases
The course of small-pox, whether distinct or confluent, may be divided into five stages, which are known under the names of incubation, invasion, eruption, suppuration, and desiccation. This division, founded on the most prominent symptoms that the disease presents, although it is an arbitrary one, still affords a facility in the study. The period of incubation comprises the interval of time that elapses from the infection to the beginning of the attack; its duration is from six to twenty days. It is not designated by any visible symptom, as the individual apparently continues in good health."
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"Incubation in the vicinity of burial places, cremation grounds, holy wells and sacred streams was common. The ancient Hebrews visited vaults or slept among tombs to get meaningful dreams."
— 1978, Benjamin Walker, Encyclopedia of Metaphysical Medicine, Routledge, page 144:
Explore More C1 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The ____ period for chicken eggs is about 21 days in a heated nest.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The ____ period for the flu is usually about two days before any symptoms begin to appear.