latent Meaning, Definition & Usage

adjective satellite potentially existing but not presently evident or realized
- a latent fingerprint
- latent talent
adjective satellite (pathology) not presently active
- latent infection
- latent diabetes

L. latens, -entis, p. pr. of latere to lie hid or concealed; cf. Gr. , E. lethargy: cf. F.latent.

Not visible or apparent; hidden; springs of action.
The evils latent in the most promising contrivances are provided for as they arise. Burke.