-ād.ə(r), -ātə- noun
( -s )
: one that incubates: as
a. : an apparatus by which eggs are hatched artificially consisting essentially of an insulated cabinet containing the eggs in trays or drawers, a source of artificial heat and of moisture, and controls to maintain a desired level of heat and moisture
b. : an apparatus for the maintenance of controlled conditions of heat and usually moisture (as for the cultivation of microorganisms)
c. : an apparatus for housing premature or sick babies in an environment of controlled humidity, oxygen supply, and temperature