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Definitions

latent

[leyt-nt] / ˈleɪt nt /
ADJECTIVE
dormant, hidden
Synonyms
STRONGEST
inherent lurking smoldering suppressed underlying unrealized veiled
WEAK
abeyant between the lines concealed contained covert idle immature implied in abeyance inactive inert inferential inferred inoperative intrinsic invisible involved passive possible potential quiescent rudimentary secret sleeping suspended tacit torpid underdeveloped undeveloped unexposed unexpressed unripe unseen vestigial
Antonyms
WEAK
active apparent clear live manifest obvious open public

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She wants to show how there’s latent wisdom to the rule that was incorporated into this history.

From Slate • Apr. 1, 2026

The additional cases of latent TB have been identified in people within the school community.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2026

What’s missing is any account of the mechanisms that translate latent capacity into sustained strategic effect.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026

This latent threat changes how we relate to each over.

From BBC • Jan. 13, 2026

Other types of cancer may in time be found to have a relatively short latent period, also, but at present leukemia seems to be the exception to the general rule of extremely slow development.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson