Latent
/ˈleɪtənt/
adjectiveC1
Definition
Latent describes something that is there but not seen or noticed yet. It can be a feeling, ability, or problem that is not active or visible now but can appear later. For example, a latent talent means a skill someone has but does not show yet.
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See It in Action
Existing but not yet visible or active
- •The virus can remain latent in the body for years without symptoms.
- •She has a latent talent for painting that she has not explored.
- •There is latent tension between the two groups, even if they seem calm.
Present but hidden, waiting to develop or appear
- •The latent problem in the system caused failures later.
- •His latent anger finally showed after the argument.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "latent" like "hidden," but it is still there quietly, waiting to appear or be found.
- ✓Picture a seed under the soil: it is alive but you cannot see it yet because it is covered.
- ✓It's the feeling of having a secret skill inside you that you have not used or shown before.
- ✓Sounds like "LAY-tent" → imagine a tent lying flat on the ground, hidden until you open it up.
- ✓Think of a mystery story where the truth is latent, waiting to be discovered later.
- ✓NOT like "obvious" (easy to see or notice); latent is invisible or quiet at first.
- ✓NOT like "active" (working or happening now); latent is not active but can become active later.
- ✓NOT like "lost" (gone forever); latent is still there, just hidden or asleep.
Try Other Words
- •Dormant: not active but can become active later (Use when talking about things like volcanoes or feelings that are asleep)
- •Potential: possible but not yet real or active (Use when focusing on future ability or chance)
- •Hidden: covered or not seen (Use when something is physically or clearly covered or secret)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: from Latin "latēre" meaning "to lie hidden"
- •Etymology: Latin origin meaning "to be hidden or concealed"
- •Historical development: Used in English since the 1600s to describe things that exist but are not visible or active
- •Modern usage: Common in science, psychology, and everyday language to describe unseen qualities or conditions
Reflect & Connect
•Can you think of a latent skill or feeling you have that you have not shown to others yet?
•How does knowing about latent problems help us prepare better in different situations?
Fill in the blanks
1.The disease was latent in the patient, so there were no ___ for many years.
2.Her latent fear of failure made her ___ to try new things.
3.Unlike obvious problems, latent issues are ___ and need careful attention.
4.When someone has latent talent, it means their skill is ___ but not yet developed.
5.The volcano was latent for decades before it suddenly ___.
6.Latent feelings often ___ until something triggers them to appear.
7.The scientist studied the latent effects of the chemical, which were not ___ immediately.