'incubate' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'incubare,' where 'in-' meant 'in' and 'cubare' meant 'to lie down.'

'incubare' transformed into the French word 'incuber,' and eventually became the modern English word 'incubate' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'to lie upon or sit on eggs,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'to maintain at a favorable temperature and in other conditions promoting development.'