Definition of quiescent
1 : marked by inactivity or repose : tranquilly at rest
2 : causing no trouble or symptoms quiescent gallstones
quiescently
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Examples of quiescent in a Sentence
a group of quiescent loungers recovering from the Thanksgiving feast
Recent Examples of quiescent from the Web
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Once all the food has been absorbed, the python’s organs shrink back to their quiescent state.
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These proposals are largely quiescent for the moment.
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Interestingly, woody plants’ roots do not enter full dormancy, but become quiescent [, as] adverse environmental conditions trigger a sort of resting state, which can then be broken once conditions improve.
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Opponents also miscalculated the willingness of a critical mass of ordinary Syrians, including many who dislike Mr. Assad, to remain quiescent for fear of uncertain alternatives.
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Economists attribute America’s remarkable run of roaring growth combined with quiescent inflation in part to productivity gains resulting from the broad application of high technology through the economy.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'quiescent.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Did You Know?
Quiescent won't cause you any pain, and neither will its synonyms "latent," "dormant," and "potential," at least not immediately. All four words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence." "Latent" usually applies to something that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop, as in "a latent desire for success." "Dormant" implies a state of inactivity similar to sleep, as in "their passions lay dormant." "Potential" applies to what may or may not come to be. "A potential disaster" is a typical example. "Quiescent," which traces to the Latin quiescere (meaning "to become quiet" or "to rest"), often suggests a temporary cessation of activity, as in "a quiescent disease" or "a summer resort quiescent in wintertime."
Origin and Etymology of quiescent
Latin quiescent-, quiescens, present participle of quiescere to become quiet, rest, from quies
Synonym Discussion of quiescent
QUIESCENT Defined for English Language Learners
quiescent
playDefinition of quiescent for English Language Learners
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: not active
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medical : not now developing or causing symptoms
Medical Dictionary
quiescent
playMedical Definition of quiescent
1: being in a state of arrest quiescent tuberculosis
2: causing no symptoms quiescent gallstones
Learn More about quiescent
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See words that rhyme with quiescent Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for quiescent Britannica English: Translation of quiescent for Arabic speakers
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