Synonym Chooser

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

Example 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 On the contrary, a state with a latent nuclear program presents a ripe target for adversaries and counterproliferators seeking to prevent weaponization who may be tempted to act swiftly before the window to do so closes and the state can plausibly threaten nuclear retaliation. Vipin Narang, Foreign Affairs, 5 Sep. 2025 Perhaps those latent rivulets reside in machines. Thomas Moynihan, Big Think, 20 Aug. 2025 Some people have active tuberculosis while others have inactive or latent TB. Hannah Poukish, Sacbee.com, 11 Aug. 2025 Some media reports of AI psychosis note that individuals had no prior mental health diagnoses, but clinicians caution that undetected or latent risk factors may still have been present. Robert Hart, Time, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for latent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for latent
Adjective
  • The Broncos went dormant offensively.
    Parker Gabriel, Denver Post, 12 Oct. 2025
  • Fertilizing Flowers Because most plants go dormant in winter, fertilizing is not useful right now.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 11 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Two weeks after an upset loss to visiting Cal Poly and a week after having a off-night bye to think about a season that could go either way, Sacramento State delivered a resounding 55-27 victory over Weber State on Saturday night in chilly Ogden, Utah.
    Joe Davidson, Sacbee.com, 12 Oct. 2025
  • Prettygarden 2-piece Jogger Set This two-piece set is an instant upgrade to your off-duty style.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 11 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Latent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/latent. Accessed 18 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on latent

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