Gestation

/dʒɛsˈteɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The period of time during which an embryo develops in the uterus, particularly in mammals.
The gestation period for humans is typically about nine months.
The process of developing or being developed over a period of time.
The gestation of her idea took several months before it became a reality.

Etymology

From Latin 'gestatio', from 'gestare' meaning 'to bear, carry'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

gestation period:
The time during which something is developed or formed, often used in a biological or metaphorical context.
to gestate an idea:
To develop or think through an idea over time.

Related Words

Slang Meanings

The time taken for an idea to mature.
It's a long gestation for this project, but it will be worth it.
A metaphor for development or incubation of plans.
We're still in the gestation phase of planning this event.