"Latent" refers to something that exists but is not currently visible or active. It can describe potential abilities, traits, or conditions that are present but not yet expressed. For example, a latent talent in a person may not be apparent until they try a new activity, revealing skills they didn't know they had. In science, "latent" often describes energy or heat that is stored and not immediately observable. For instance, latent heat is the energy absorbed or released during a phase change, such as when ice melts into water. This energy is crucial for understanding various physical processes.