latent

[ˈleɪtnt]

latent Definition

• 1. existing but not yet developed or manifest; hidden; concealed
• 2. of a quality or state, dormant, but potentially able to be expressed or activated

Using latent: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "latent" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The disease can remain latent in the body for years before symptoms appear.

• Example

  He has a latent talent for music that he has never explored.

• Example

  The latent heat of fusion is the amount of energy required to change a solid into a liquid without changing its temperature.

latent Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for latent

• dormant
• hidden
• concealed
• potential
• undeveloped

Antonyms for latent

• apparent
• manifest
• overt

Phrases with latent

• latent period

  the time between exposure to an infectious agent and the onset of symptoms

  Example

  The latent period of COVID-19 can range from 2 to 14 days.

• latent image

  an invisible image produced by the action of light on photographic film or paper

  Example

  The latent image on the film was developed into a visible photograph.

• latent fingerprint

  a fingerprint that is not visible to the naked eye and requires special techniques to be made visible

  Example

  The detective used a special powder to reveal the latent fingerprints on the glass.

Origins of latent

from Latin 'latere', meaning 'to lie hidden'

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Summary: latent in Brief

The term 'latent' [ˈleɪtnt] refers to something that exists but is not yet developed or manifest, or is hidden or concealed. It can describe qualities or states that are dormant but potentially able to be expressed or activated, as in 'He has a latent talent for music.' 'Latent' also extends to scientific contexts, such as 'latent heat of fusion,' which refers to the energy required to change a solid into a liquid without changing its temperature.