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gestation

Pronunciation: /dʒɛˈsteɪʃ(ə)n/

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Definition of gestation

noun

[mass noun]

the process or period of developing inside the womb between conception and birth.
the development of something over a period of time:a thorough and painstaking work which was a long time in gestation

Derivatives

gestational

Origin:

mid 16th century (denoting an excursion on horseback, in a carriage, etc., considered as exercise): from Latin gestatio(n-), from gestare 'carry, carry in the womb', frequentative of gerere 'carry'