noun
incubator
IHN-kyoo-bay-tuh
Incubator (noun) means a device that keeps a controlled, warm environment for a premature or newborn baby. Example: “The premature baby spent two weeks in an incubator.”
noun
1
A device that keeps a controlled, warm environment for a premature or newborn baby.
"The premature baby spent two weeks in an incubator."
2
A programme or organisation that supports the early growth of new businesses.
"The startup got its first funding through a tech incubator."
How to use incubator
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomething that provides the right early conditions for growth — for a baby, eggs, bacteria, or a new business.
Common pairings
startup incubator
baby incubator
business incubator
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like incubator.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- incubators
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The premature baby spent two weeks in an _____.
Etymology
From incubate plus the agent-forming suffix -or.
Synonyms
View more →Related words
Rhymes for incubator
See all rhymes for incubator →Frequently asked questions
What does “incubator” mean?
The word “incubator” means a device that keeps a controlled, warm environment for a premature or newborn baby. In plain terms, something that provides the right early conditions for growth — for a baby, eggs, bacteria, or a new business.
How do you pronounce “incubator”?
“Incubator” is pronounced IHN-kyoo-bay-tuh ([ˈɪn.kjuːˌbeɪ.ɾɚ] in IPA).
How do you use “incubator” in a sentence?
Here is “incubator” used in a sentence: “The premature baby spent two weeks in an incubator.”
What part of speech is “incubator”?
“Incubator” is a noun.
How many meanings does “incubator” have?
“Incubator” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a device that keeps a controlled, warm environment for a premature or newborn baby.
