This is the 10457th most frequent French word.
latent
Existing but not yet developed or manifest; hidden or concealed.
Here, 'latent' is used to describe energy hidden within an object, implying it exists without being currently active.
L'énergie latente dans cet objet peut être libérée sous certaines conditions.
The latent energy in this object can be released under certain conditions.
In this case, 'latent' is used to signify a talent that exists within the person but is not yet visible or developed.
Son talent latent se révèlera avec le temps.
His latent talent will reveal itself over time.
Here, 'latent' describes a state where the virus exists in the body but is not currently active in causing noticeable effects.