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Definitions

incubation

[in-kyuh-bey-shuhn, ing-] / ˌɪn kyəˈbeɪ ʃən, ˌɪŋ- /
NOUN
gestation
Synonyms
STRONG
evolution fecundation gravidity growth maturation pregnancy reproduction ripening
Antonyms
STRONG
decrease
NOUN
preparation
Synonyms
STRONGEST
arrangement construction education establishment formation groundwork measure plan precaution preparedness qualification rehearsal study training
STRONG
alertness anticipation background base basis evolution expectation fitting foresight foundation gestation homework manufacture provision readying rundown safeguard schoolwork substructure tryout workout
WEAK
buildup dry run getting ready lead time making ready preparing putting in order
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignorance
WEAK
ingredient unreadiness

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The incubation period, the time between infection and getting symptoms, is thought to be up to 10 days.

From BBC • Mar. 20, 2026

The virus is contagious only when symptoms appear after an incubation period of two to 21 days.

From Barron's • Dec. 1, 2025

"As these seaweed accumulations grow taller and more widespread, they risk blocking hatchlings entirely, draining their limited energy or leaving them stranded. Beyond impeding movement, sargassum may also reduce nesting space and alter incubation conditions."

From Science Daily • Nov. 24, 2025

Depending on the species of vulture we're talking about, incubation ranges from 50 days to almost two months.

From Salon • May 11, 2025

Smallpox has an incubation period of about twelve days, during which time sufferers, who may not know they are sick, can infect anyone they meet.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.