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Latency Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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latency

[ˈleɪtənsi ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

networking

The time it takes for a data packet to travel from the sender to the receiver and back.

Synonyms

delay, lag, response time.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
latency

Used to describe the time delay between the cause and effect of a physical or virtual process. Often applies to devices, networks, or systems processing.

  • The network latency was causing issues with the video calls
  • Lowering server latency can improve user experience on the website
delay

Generic term for any kind of slowing down or pause. Suitable for describing everyday situations or technical scenarios.

  • The train's delay caused many passengers to miss their connections
  • We experienced a delay in receiving the package due to the weather
lag

Primarily refers to the time difference or a gap in real-time communication or performance, often in gaming or live streaming contexts. Can carry a mildly negative connotation.

  • The game has a lot of lag, making it difficult to play
  • There was noticeable lag during the video conference
response time

Used particularly in technical or customer service contexts to measure how quickly something reacts or responds after a request is made. Seen in both system performance and customer service response scenarios.

  • Improving the server's response time can enhance the user experience
  • The response time of the customer service was impressive

Examples of usage

  • High latency can result in slow internet connection.
  • Online gamers often look for low latency to minimize delays in gameplay.
Context #2 | Noun

general

The state of being latent; hidden, dormant, or undeveloped.

Synonyms

dormancy, hibernation, quiescence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
latency

Latency is often used in technology and medicine. It refers to the time delay between a cause and its effect, or the period in which a disease is present but not yet causing symptoms.

  • The latency between sending a request and getting a response is crucial in web performance
  • During its latency period, the virus remains inactive in the body
dormancy

Dormancy is usually applied to biological contexts, describing a temporary inactive state in animals, plants, or seeds where growth and development stop.

  • Many plants enter dormancy in winter to survive harsh conditions
  • The seeds remain in dormancy until the spring rains arrive
quiescence

Quiescence indicates a state of quietness or inactivity in a general sense, often used in scientific and literary contexts to describe temporary inactivity or rest.

  • The volcano is in a period of quiescence, with no signs of imminent eruption
  • The patient's quandary into quiescence before regaining full strength
hibernation

Hibernation specifically refers to a state of prolonged inactivity or dormancy in animals, particularly in mammals, to survive winter.

  • Bears go into hibernation to conserve energy during the winter months
  • The groundhog is known for its hibernation habits

Examples of usage

  • The virus remained in a state of latency before becoming active.
  • The artist's talent lay dormant for years before being discovered.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • In computer networks, latency refers to the time it takes for data to travel from its source to its destination.
  • Lower latency in gaming means quicker reactions and smoother experiences, which is crucial for competitive play.
  • Websites with high latency often result in longer load times, leading users to abandon them.

Psychology

  • The concept of latency can also apply to behavior, where reactions are delayed due to processing time in the brain.
  • In developmental psychology, latency is a stage in childhood when urges and conflicts become less pronounced, emphasizing learning and social skills.
  • Latency periods are important in assessing how children grow and interact with their surroundings.

Medicine

  • In the medical field, latency can describe the period before symptoms of a disease appear, such as in viral infections.
  • Certain conditions, like tuberculosis, can remain latent in the body and not show symptoms for long periods, complicating diagnosis.
  • Understanding latency periods is crucial for effective treatment and management of various illnesses.

Physics

  • In physics, latency can refer to the delay between applying a force and observing its effects, such as in sound waves or electrical signals.
  • Thermal latency involves the time it takes for materials to heat up or cool down, affecting everything from weather patterns to engineering design.
  • Latent heat refers to the energy absorbed or released during a phase change of a substance without changing its temperature.

Education

  • In learning, latency shows how long it takes for someone to recall information after it's been taught.
  • Teachers often evaluate latency to understand how effectively students have absorbed material and can apply it later.
  • Understanding latency in education can help tailor teaching methods to fit the learning pace of different individuals.

Origin of 'latency'

The word 'latency' originated from the Latin word 'latens', meaning 'to lie hidden'. It has been used in various fields, including networking, medicine, and psychology. The concept of latency has become increasingly important in the digital age, particularly in relation to internet speeds and data transmission.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,678, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.