Basic Details
Word: Latent
Part of Speech: Adjective
Meaning: Something that exists but is not yet developed or visible.
Synonyms: Hidden, dormant, potential
Antonyms: Obvious, evident, clear
Idioms and Phrases
- Latent talent: An ability that someone has but has not yet shown. Example: "Her latent talent for singing was revealed when she joined the school choir."
- Latent heat: The heat energy absorbed or released during a phase change of a substance. Example: "The latent heat of the ice helped it melt slowly without temperature change."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The scientist discovered latent energy in the mineral that could eventually be harnessed.
Example 2: Many talents can remain latent until the right situation brings them to light.
Example 3: The artist's latent creativity flourished during her years at art school, leading to beautiful masterpieces.
Fun Fact
The word "latent" comes from the Latin word "latens," which means "lying hidden." It has been used in English since the early 17th century to describe things that are present but not yet visible.
Famous Quote
"The greatest danger for most of us is not that our aim is too high and we miss it, but that it is too low and we reach it." Michelangelo
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "latent" mean?
a) Something obvious
b) Something hidden
c) Something loud
d) Something bright
Answer: b) Something hidden
2. Which of these is a synonym of "latent"?
a) Clear
b) Potential
c) Evident
d) Bright
Answer: b) Potential
3. Which sentence uses "latent" correctly?
a) The latent balloon flew across the sky.
b) The latent plants already bloomed in the garden.
c) She discovered her latent love for cooking during lockdown.
d) The latent cat ran fast after the mouse.
Answer: c) She discovered her latent love for cooking during lockdown.
4. Which idiom means having hidden skills or abilities?
a) Latent talent
b) Out of the blue
c) The tip of the iceberg
d) A feather in one's cap
Answer: a) Latent talent
5. What is the opposite of "latent"?
a) Clear
b) Hidden
c) Dormant
d) Potential
Answer: a) Clear
