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nounadjective

le latent

latent

Definition & meaning

The word latent describes something that is present but not yet visible, active, or developed. It refers to a state of potentiality where a quality or capacity exists but is hidden or dormant.

  • In a general sense: It refers to something that is concealed or lying dormant, waiting for the right conditions to become manifest (e.g., a latent talent).
  • In medicine/biology: It refers to a disease or infection that is present in the body without showing any symptoms (e.g., a latent virus).
  • In psychology: It refers to thoughts, feelings, or drives that are present in the unconscious mind but are not currently being expressed or consciously felt.

Grammar & Word origin

  • Grammar: It is an adjective. In French, it is invariable in the masculine singular, though it takes an 'e' in the feminine singular (latente) and an 's' in the plural (latents/latentes).
  • Origin: The word originates from the Latin latens, latentis, which is the present participle of the verb latere, meaning "to lie hidden" or "to be concealed."

Synonyms & antonyms

  • Synonyms:

    • Caché latent
    • Dissimulé latent
    • Dormant latent
    • Sous-jacent latent
    • Implicit latent

  • Antonyms:

    • Apparent latent
    • Manifeste latent
    • Visible latent
    • Explicite latent
    • Actif latent

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Examples

Cet enfant a un talent latent pour la musique.adjective

This child has a latent talent for music.

Des tensions latentes persistent au sein du groupe.adjective

Latent tensions persist within the group.

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