Synonyms of latent

latent

adjective

ˈlā-tᵊnt 

as in dormant

not being in a state of use, activity, or employment

he has a latent talent for acting that he hasn't had a chance to express yet

Synonyms & Similar Words

• dormant
• off
• unused
• idle
• vacant
• inactive
• dead
• inert
• at rest
• free
• inoperative
• out of commission
• on the shelf
• fallow
• useless
• quiescent
• suspended
• arrested
• unoccupied
• interrupted
• unusable
• slow
• comatose
• asleep
• moribund
• lifeless
• abeyant
• unworkable
• inoperable
• sleepy
• dull

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• active
• operative
• operating
• on
• functioning
• operational
• functional
• alive
• busy
• employed
• working
• going
• living
• workable
• operable
• industrious
• practical
• vigorous
• useful
• energetic
• running
• viable
• feasible
• assiduous
• usable
• sedulous

Synonym Chooser

How is the word latent distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of latent are dormant, potential, and quiescent. While all these words mean "not now showing signs of activity or existence," latent applies to a power or quality that has not yet come forth but may emerge and develop.

a latent desire for success

Where would dormant be a reasonable alternative to latent?

While the synonyms dormant and latent are close in meaning, dormant suggests the inactivity of something (such as a feeling or power) as though sleeping.

their passion had lain dormant

When can potential be used instead of latent?

While in some cases nearly identical to latent, potential applies to what does not yet have existence or effect but is likely soon to have.

a potential disaster

When would quiescent be a good substitute for latent?

In some situations, the words quiescent and latent are roughly equivalent. However, quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity.

the disease was quiescent

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of latent

The latent hawkishness at the Fed may be once again out of step with the real economy. — George Calhoun, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026

After the pair had finally acted on latent feelings for each other and decided to be together, Oona first broached the topic of Ramona leaving for New York and leaving her behind when Ramona pitched it as a not-yet final decision. — Dessi Gomez, Deadline, 5 Aug. 2026

But that thing for animals remains, latent but easily triggered by, say, a Blue Buffalo commercial. — Adam Erace, Travel + Leisure, 4 Aug. 2026

Rather, proponents of this approach say that there is a useful-enough approximation of understanding in latent space. — ArsTechnica, 13 July 2026