mindmap root((潜在)) latent applies to a concealed power or quality that is not yet in sight or action but may emerge and develop in the future: a ~ sadism that emerged during the war. dormant suggests the inactivity of something, such as a feeling or power, as thought it were sleeping and capable of renewed activity: a ~ passion existed between them. quiescent suggests a usually temporary cessation of activity: political tensions were ~ for the moment. potential apples to what does not yet have existence, nature, or effect but has the capacity for having it and is likely soon to do so: a toxic waste dump that is a ~ disaster. abeyant applies to what is for the time being held off or suppressed: an ~ distrust of the neighbors.