adj.
Pronunciation: ' l ā -t ə nt
Function: adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin latent-, latens, from present participle of lat ē re to lie hidden; akin to Greek lanthanein to escape notice
Date: 15th century
: present and capable of becoming though not now visible, obvious, active, or symptomatic <a latent infection>
– la · tent · ly adverb
synonyms LATENT , DORMANT , QUIESCENT , POTENTIAL mean not now showing signs of activity or existence. LATENT applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop <a latent desire for success>. DORMANT suggests the inactivity of something (as a feeling or power) as though sleeping <their passion had lain dormant >. QUIESCENT suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity <the disease was quiescent >. POTENTIAL applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have <a potential disaster>.