incubate
UK: ˈɪŋkjubeɪt | US: ˈɪŋkjubeɪt
vt. to maintain (eggs, cells, bacteria, etc.) under controlled conditions for growth or development
vt. to develop or produce (an idea, plan, etc.) gradually
vi. (of eggs, cells, etc.) to undergo incubation
The word "incubate" originates from Latin incubare, combining in- (upon) and cubare (to lie). Historically, it referred to birds lying on eggs to hatch them. Over time, the meaning expanded metaphorically to include the gradual development of ideas or biological cultures. The morpheme cub (lie) also appears in "incumbent" (one who "lies" in office) and "cubicle" (a small space to "lie" or work).
The lab technician will incubate the samples at 37°C overnight.
Great ideas often need time to incubate before they mature.
The bird refused to leave its nest to incubate the eggs.
Startups incubate innovative solutions in coworking spaces.
Bacterial cultures must incubate for 24 hours for accurate results.