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Latent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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latent

[หˆleษชtnt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

hidden

existing but not yet developed or manifest; hidden; concealed

Synonyms

concealed, hidden, unmanifested.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
latent

Used to describe something that exists but is not immediately obvious or active. Often used in scientific or technical contexts, such as medicine or psychology.

  • The virus remains latent in the body for years before causing symptoms.
  • She has a latent talent for drawing that few people know about.
hidden

Can refer to anything that is out of sight, whether intentionally or naturally. It is more general and less formal, suitable for everyday speech.

  • The treasure was hidden in the forest.
  • He kept his emotions hidden from everyone.
concealed

Used when something is intentionally hidden from view or knowledge. Often implies a deliberate action to keep something secret.

  • The weapon was concealed under his coat.
  • She concealed her true feelings during the meeting.
unmanifested

Refers to something that has not yet appeared or taken on a tangible form. Often used in philosophical or spiritual contexts.

  • The unmanifested potential of the universe is limitless.
  • Her unmanifested ideas could revolutionize the industry.

Examples of usage

  • latent talent
  • latent potential
  • latent fingerprint
Context #2 | Adjective

biology

present and capable of emerging or developing but not now visible, obvious, active, or symptomatic

Synonyms

dormant, inactive, potential.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
latent

Use this word when referring to something that is present but not visible or active yet, often related to abilities or diseases.

  • He has a latent talent for singing that he hasn't discovered yet.
  • The virus remains latent in the body until triggered by stress.
dormant

This word is suitable for situations where something is temporarily inactive or not growing, often used in natural or biological contexts.

  • The volcano has been dormant for decades but could erupt at any moment.
  • The seeds will remain dormant until the spring.
inactive

Perfect for describing something or someone that is not currently in action or use, often used in general or everyday contexts.

  • Her bank account has been inactive for years.
  • The students became inactive during the summer break.
potential

Best used when referring to the capacity to develop into something in the future, often related to abilities, qualities, or opportunities.

  • She has the potential to become a great artist.
  • The company sees great potential in the new market.

Examples of usage

  • latent infection
  • latent virus
Context #3 | Noun

psychology

a hidden or concealed quality or condition that may manifest itself later

Synonyms

hidden, potential, undeveloped.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
latent

Use when referring to something that exists but is not yet visible or active.

  • She has a latent talent for painting that she hasn't discovered yet.
  • The disease can remain latent in the body for years.
potential

Use when referring to a capability or possibility that has not been realized or actualized yet.

  • He has the potential to become a great scientist.
  • The empty land has a lot of development potential.
undeveloped

Use when referring to something that has not been fully developed or brought to completion, often used in relation to land or skills.

  • This area of the country is still largely undeveloped.
  • He has an undeveloped ability in music that needs nurturing.
hidden

Use when referring to something that is deliberately kept out of sight or is not easily found.

  • The treasure was hidden under the old oak tree.
  • She had hidden feelings for her best friend.

Examples of usage

  • latent aggression
  • latent desire

Translations

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

Origin of 'latent'

The word 'latent' comes from the Latin word 'latens', meaning 'lying hidden'. It was first recorded in English in the 17th century. The concept of something being present but not yet visible or active has been a key aspect of various fields, including psychology, biology, and physics.

Word Frequency Rank

At #7,096 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.