latent

Meanings

1. 1
   adj

   Present but hidden or not yet active, with the potential to appear later.

   The training is designed to bring out each student's latent talent.

2. 2
   adj

   (of a disease) present in the body but not yet causing symptoms.

   The virus can remain latent for years before suddenly flaring up.

From Middle English latent, latente, from Old French latent, from Latin latēns, present participle of lateō (“lie hidden”).

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