latent: Meaning and Definition of

la•tent

1. present but not visible, apparent, or actualized; existing as potential: latent ability.
2. (of an infectious agent or disease) remaining in an inactive or hidden phase; dormant.
3. existing in unconscious or dormant form but potentially able to achieve expression: a latent emotion.
4. (of buds that are not externally manifest) dormant or undeveloped.