latent heat

noun

: heat given off or absorbed in a process (such as fusion or vaporization) other than a change of temperature

Examples of latent heat in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The freezing of cloud droplets releases latent heat and causes ice to splinter. Chris Wright, The Conversation, 11 Mar. 2025 And heat pumps will capture the latent heat in the humid ambient air and transfer it back into the fish tanks, reducing the humidity substantially. IEEE Spectrum, 3 June 2013 The freezing is what releases latent heat, not the ice. Chris Wright, The Conversation, 11 Mar. 2025 The sinking air can act as a cap or heat dome, trapping the latent heat already absorbed by the landscape. Umair Irfan, Vox, 5 June 2024 See All Example Sentences for latent heat

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1757, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of latent heat was circa 1757

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Cite this Entry

“Latent heat.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/latent%20heat. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

latent heat

noun
: heat given off or absorbed in a process (as fusion or vaporization) other than a change of temperature

More from Merriam-Webster on latent heat

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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