The term "dormant" refers to a state of inactivity or rest. In nature, it often describes plants or seeds that are not currently growing but have the potential to become active under the right conditions. For example, some trees, like maple trees, enter a dormant phase during winter to conserve energy. In a broader context, "dormant" can apply to various situations, such as a business that is not currently operating or a volcano that has not erupted for a long time but could become active again. This state indicates a temporary pause rather than a permanent end.