To incorporate means to include something as part of a whole, like adding a new ingredient to make something complete. When a chef incorporates butter into cookie dough, she mixes it in thoroughly so it becomes part of the recipe. When a teacher incorporates games into her math lessons, she weaves them into her teaching so learning becomes more engaging.

The word means truly blending something in so it becomes part of the larger thing, rather than placing things side by side. A writer might incorporate research into an essay, or an architect might incorporate traditional designs into a modern building.

Incorporation also has a specific legal meaning: it's the process of forming a corporation, which is a special type of business organization. When entrepreneurs incorporate their company, they create a legal entity separate from themselves. This can protect their personal belongings if the business runs into trouble.

You might also hear the word in history class: when territories become part of a nation, they become incorporated.