latent synonyms

latent

modif.

potential, dormant, quiescent, implied, inherent, undeveloped, unrealized, underdeveloped, torpid, suspended, in abeyance, abeyant, inactive, in the making, possible, intrinsic, sleeping, slumbering, inert, lurking, unexposed, covert, inoperative, suppressed, passive, underlying, contained, unexpressed, tacit, inferred, escaping notice, hidden, unconscious, inferential, between the lines*; see also hidden 2.

Antonyms active*, developed*, operative.

latent applies to that which exists but is as yet concealed or unrevealed latent abilities; potential applies to that which exists in an undeveloped state but which can be brought to development in the normal course of events a potential concert pianist; dormant suggests a lack of visible activity, as of something asleep a dormant volcano; quiescent implies a stopping of activity, usually only temporarily the raging sea had become quiescent

Webster's New World Roget's A-Z Thesaurus Copyright © 1999 by Wiley Publishing, Inc., Cleveland, Ohio.
Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.