breeding ground

noun

1

: the place to which animals go to breed

2

: a place or set of circumstances suitable for or favorable to growth and development

hurricane breeding grounds

Synonyms

• hotbed
• hothouse
• nest
• nidus
• nursery
• seedbed
• seminary

Examples of breeding ground in a Sentence

a breeding ground for seals

The Gulf of Mexico is a breeding ground for hurricanes.

The company's casual atmosphere serves as a breeding ground for innovation.

Recent Examples on the Web

Grout, which is porous, can be a breeding ground for these unsightly and potentially hazardous issues. —Jamie Gold, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Clean often: Tubs can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not properly cleaned with soap and water after every use, says Dr. Parthasarathy. —Daley Quinn Published, Health, 25 Oct. 2024

Cut melons, meanwhile, can be a common breeding ground for pathogens, especially if they’re left sitting out. —Elizabeth Chuck, NBC News, 25 Oct. 2024

The utter devastation of both Helene and Milton has created a breeding ground for political disillusionment and paranoia. —Jessica Pishko, The New Yorker, 16 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1630, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

breeding ground

noun

1

: the place where animals go to breed

2

: a place or situation that helps or allows something to grow or develop

an expanse of warm ocean that is a breeding ground for hurricanes