Langimage
English

gestate

|ges/tate|

C1

/ˈdʒɛsteɪt/

develop or carry

Etymology
Etymology Information

'gestate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'gestare,' where 'gest-' meant 'to carry.'

Historical Evolution

'gestare' transformed into the English word 'gestate' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'to carry,' but over time it evolved into its current meanings of 'to carry a fetus' and 'to develop an idea.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Verb 1

to carry a fetus in the womb from conception to birth.

The elephant gestates for nearly 22 months.

Synonyms

Verb 2

to develop an idea or plan over a period of time.

The project gestated over several months before it was launched.

Synonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/14 00:36