noun a dormant or hidden quality or state
adjective existing but not yet developed or manifest; hidden; concealed
In psychology, latent refers to hidden or dormant qualities or abilities that may not be readily apparent but can emerge under certain conditions.
In statistics, latent variables are variables that are not directly observed but are inferred from other observed variables.
In computer science, latent semantic analysis is a technique used for analyzing relationships between a set of documents and the terms they contain.
In chemistry, latent heat of fusion is the heat energy required to change a substance from a solid to a liquid state at its melting point.
In physics, latent heat refers to the heat absorbed or released during a change of state without a change in temperature.
In biology, latent infections are infections that are present but not causing symptoms, often able to reactivate at a later time.
In the context of writing, 'latent' may refer to hidden or underlying themes, emotions, or meanings within a piece of literature.
Psychologists may use 'latent' to describe unconscious thoughts, desires, or motivations that influence behavior but are not readily apparent.
Data scientists may refer to 'latent variables' in statistical modeling, which are unobserved variables that are inferred from the data.
Engineers may use 'latent defects' to describe hidden flaws or weaknesses in a product that are not immediately obvious.
Marketers may talk about 'latent demand' to describe potential customers who have an interest in a product but have not yet made a purchase.