Ovulation is a phase in the female menstrual cycle during which a mature egg (ovum) is released from one of the ovaries. This egg then travels down the fallopian tube toward the uterus, where it can potentially be fertilized by sperm

. Typically, ovulation occurs about midway through the menstrual cycle, around day 14 in a 28-day cycle, but the exact timing can vary between individuals and cycles

. The process is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), which causes the dominant follicle in the ovary to rupture and release the egg

. The egg remains viable for fertilization for about 12 to 24 hours after release. If sperm fertilizes the egg during this window, pregnancy can occur. If not fertilized, the egg disintegrates and is shed along with the uterine lining during menstruation

. Ovulation is a key event for fertility, and many people track ovulation signs or use ovulation predictor kits to identify their most fertile days

. In summary, to ovulate means to release a mature egg from the ovary as part of the menstrual cycle, making conception possible during a limited fertile window each month.