LATENT Synonyms: 58 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'latent' distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of latent are dormant , potential , and quiescent . While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop. // a latent desire for success

Q: Where would 'dormant' be a reasonable alternative to 'latent'?

While the synonyms dormant and latent are close in meaning, dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping. // their passion had lain dormant

Q: When can 'potential' be used instead of 'latent'?

While in some cases nearly identical to latent , potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have. // a potential disaster

Q: When would 'quiescent' be a good substitute for 'latent'?

In some situations, the words quiescent and latent are roughly equivalent. However, quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity. // the disease was quiescent

latent

adjective

ˈlā-tᵊnt

Definition of latent next

as in dormant

not being in a state of use, activity, or employment he has a latent talent for acting that he hasn't had a chance to express yet

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How is the word latent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of latent are dormant, potential, and quiescent. While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop.

a latent desire for success

Where would dormant be a reasonable alternative to latent?

While the synonyms dormant and latent are close in meaning, dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping.

their passion had lain dormant

When can potential be used instead of latent?

While in some cases nearly identical to latent, potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have.

a potential disaster

When would quiescent be a good substitute for latent?

In some situations, the words quiescent and latent are roughly equivalent. However, quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity.

the disease was quiescent

Examples Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of latent These scenarios illustrate the growing reliance on AI systems that look helpful on the surface — yet lead to chronic consumer disempowerment and latent dissatisfaction. —

Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes, 14 Dec. 2024 This was best highlighted in a study published earlier this year in the journal Computers and Education: Artificial Intelligence in which researchers conducted a latent profile analysis of 490 university students to assess their ChatGPT use. —

Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 8 Dec. 2024 These mines are the leading edge of what government and industry leaders in Texas hope will be a nuclear renaissance, as America’s latent nuclear sector begins to stir again. —

Dylan Baddour, WIRED, 7 Dec. 2024 Both images suggest latent recollections from childhood, hazily called back up. —

M. Z. Adnan, The New Yorker, 30 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for latent