latency period

noun

1

: latency sense 3

2

: latent period

Examples of latency period in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Because there is often a long latency period between exposure and symptom onset, diagnoses are frequently delayed, according to DPH. — Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 11 Dec. 2025

There’s a long latency period between silica exposure and the development of silicosis. — Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 9 Dec. 2025

And several epidemiological studies of Camp Lejeune point to latency periods (the time between exposure and the development of cancer) as short as two years for resulting blood cancers. — Air Mail, 10 May 2025

Given the eight-year time period post exposure and the varying latency period for different cancers that develop as a result of exposure to incineration, this study may not reflect the true nature of risks to human health. — Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 13 Mar. 2025

The latency period of toxic exposure effects, as seen with Agent Orange in Vietnam, spans generations. — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 9 Aug. 2024

Yet the long latency period of asbestos diseases has meant people have continued getting sick with lung problems. — Amy Beth Hanson, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2024

Many people died as a result of the recent Covid19 epidemic, which highlighted the weaknesses and latency periods involved in controlling an unidentified worldwide viral outbreak. — Chuck Brooks, Forbes, 29 Feb. 2024

To avoid it, Ansible Motion’s simulators shave the latency period to under 30 milliseconds, short enough to seem like no time at all. — IEEE Spectrum, 24 Feb. 2016

Word History

First Known Use

1910, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for latency period

• photoperiod
• myriad