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REFERENCE

incorporate

v.
US //ˌɪnˈkɔɹpɝˌeɪt// in·cor·po·rate
  1. 1 to include as a part (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    to include something so that it becomes a part of a larger group or system.

    to integrate or combine something into a pre-existing structure or entity so that it becomes a constituent part.

    Example

    The new design will incorporate many of the suggestions made by the staff.

    Example

    The researchers decided to incorporate the latest longitudinal data into their final report to ensure the findings reflected current demographic shifts.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'into'.

  2. 2 to form a legal company (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

    to officially start a company that has its own legal rights.

    to form a legal corporation that is recognised as an entity distinct from its owners.

    Example

    They decided to incorporate the business to protect their personal assets.

    Example

    The founders chose to incorporate in Delaware due to the state's well-established body of corporate law and favourable tax environment.

    Usage

    Frequently used in the passive voice or as a past-participle adjective (e.g., 'an incorporated company').

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  1. 3 to mix ingredients (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Cooking

    to mix an ingredient into a larger mass so that it is spread evenly.

    to blend or combine substances into a single, consistent mass.

    Example

    Gently incorporate the flour into the egg mixture using a large spoon.

    Example

    The chef demonstrated how to slowly incorporate the chilled butter into the sauce to achieve a smooth, glossy emulsion.

Etymology 1

From Middle English, from Late Latin incorporātus, perfect passive participle of incorporō (“to embody, to incorporate”), from in- (“in”) + corpus, corporis (“body”).

Etymology 2

From in- (“not”) + corporate.

Word family

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