breeding ground

American  

noun

1. a place where animals breed or to which they return to breed.

2. an environment suitable for or fostering the development of an idea, thing, etc..

   a breeding ground for violence.

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Etymology

Origin of breeding ground

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

These powerful vocal performances can carry across large areas of the breeding grounds and are believed to play an important role in attracting females.

From Science Daily

For several years, London has been losing ground to its star-studded rivals in Paris and Milan, but it has clung onto its role as a breeding ground for young talent.

From Barron's

He said buffet-style catering can increase the risk and be a "breeding ground" for bacteria and viruses.

From BBC

EDF then suggested a plan to flood 1,500 acres of nearby coast to create a salt marsh breeding ground to offset any fish death.

From The Wall Street Journal

Scientists at the breeding ground on the Valdes Peninsula along Argentina's coast have determined that 97 percent of elephant seal pups died either from being abandoned or contracting bird flu in 2023.

From Barron's

Related Words

• hatchery