latent
present but not yet active, visible, or developed
Word origin: From Latin latere, to lie hidden.
Latent in a sentence
Here are example sentences showing latent in a sentence.
The course drew out a latent talent for negotiation that she had never realized she possessed.
The vaccine works by training the immune system to recognize a pathogen whose threat remains latent until exposure occurs.
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Verbal · Sentence Equivalence
Modern editors have softened many passages that earlier audiences accepted without protest, finding blank what their grandparents had regarded as merely robust and good-humored.
Using “latent” well
Latent describes something real and present that has not yet surfaced or become active, unlike merely potential traits that may never emerge. It carries no negative judgment on its own.
More GRE words starting with L
liable to change frequently and unpredictably; emotionally unstable
extremely complicated and full of confusing twists and turns
tearful or given to weeping; mournful
lacking enthusiasm, effort, or determination; carelessly lazy
lacking in vitality, force, or conviction; not impressive
using very few words; terse to the point of seeming blunt
one who falls behind or lags noticeably slower than others
to criticize or scold harshly
Questions about “latent”
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