C1adjectiveformalsciencehealth
US/ˈleɪ.tənt/
UK/ˈleɪ.tənt/
existing but not yet active, developed or noticed
In context
The coach saw latent talent in the shy boy and gave him a chance.
A latent infection may cause no symptoms for years.
The crisis brought latent tensions between the two groups to the surface.
Words that go with latent
adjective + noun
- latent talentGood teachers help students discover their latent talent.
- latent potentialThe region has huge latent potential for tourism.
- latent infectionDoctors test for latent infection before starting the treatment.
- latent periodThe disease has a latent period of several weeks.
- latent demandThere is strong latent demand for cheap flights.
- latent tensionThere was always some latent tension between the sisters.
- latent heatLatent heat is the energy needed to turn ice into water.