Background for latent

latent

/ˈleɪ.tənt/

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noun

(forensics) The residue left by a person's finger that can be made visible by a process such as powder dusting; a latent fingerprint.

Examples :

"The detective carefully lifted the latent fingerprint from the windowsill. "

police law sign process mark

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noun

An underlying cause that can be inferred from statistical correlations; factor.

Examples :

"The latent cause of the students' declining grades was a lack of engagement in class activities. "

theory science statistics system logic

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noun

Anything that is latent.

Examples :

"The latent fear of public speaking was a significant obstacle to her career goals. "

possibility thing

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adjective

Existing or present but concealed or inactive.

Examples :

"The old camera had a latent defect that only appeared when taking pictures in bright sunlight. "

theory science mind condition possibility

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adjective

(of a virus) remaining in an inactive or hidden phase; dormant.

Examples :

"The chickenpox virus can remain latent in the body for many years, sometimes causing shingles later in life. "

virus medicine biology

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adjective

Lying dormant or hidden until circumstances are suitable for development or manifestation.

Examples :

"The seeds of ambition remained latent within her until a new opportunity arose at work. "

possibility condition science