Definition

Something that exists but is not yet visible or active; it has the potential to develop or emerge under the right conditions.

Example

She has a latent talent for painting that she has not yet explored.

Conversation

I think there’s some latent talent in you that you haven’t discovered yet.

Really? I’ve never thought about it that way.

Yeah, maybe you just need the right opportunity to let it show.

I guess I should try new things and see what happens!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of fingerprint that is not easily seen but can be made visible for identification purposes, often used in forensic science.

Example

The detective found a latent fingerprint on the glass that helped solve the case.

Conversation

Did you hear about the investigation at the old house?

Yeah, they found some latent fingerprints on the door handle.

That's interesting! I wonder who lived there before.

Root Explanation

Latent → It is derived from the Latin 'latens' (meaning lying hidden) which is the present participle of 'latere' (meaning to lie hidden or be concealed). The word 'latent' refers to something that exists but is not yet developed or manifest; it is hidden or dormant.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'hidden' ('latere') — that's why 'latent' describes something that exists but is not yet visible or active.

Visually Confused Words