latent

Latent means something present but invisible or hidden. (adjective)

An example of latent is an ability to swim that will become clear with a first lesson.
An example of latent is a psychological tendency that you are not fully aware of.
An example of latent are fingerprints which cannot be seen.

See latent in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

present but invisible or inactive; lying hidden and undeveloped within a person or thing, as a quality or power
Biol. dormant but capable of normal development under the best conditions: said of buds, spores, cocoons, etc.
Psychol. unconsciously but not actively so: a latent homosexual

noun

a fingerprint found on an object as at the scene of a crime

Related Forms:

See latent in American Heritage Dictionary 4

(lātˈnt)

adjective

Present or potential but not evident or active: latent talent.
Pathology In a dormant or hidden stage: a latent infection.
Biology Undeveloped but capable of normal growth under the proper conditions: a latent bud.
Psychology Present and accessible in the unconscious mind but not consciously expressed.

noun

A fingerprint that is not apparent to the eye but can be made sufficiently visible, as by dusting or fuming, for use in identification.

Related Forms:

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