The phrase "dormant state" means a condition or state of inactivity or dormancy, where something is not actively growing, functioning, or developing. Full definition
These water dwelling creatures can also survive dry environments in a shrivelled - up, dormant state for as long as a decade, reviving within an hour when exposed to water. (newscientist.com)
When the new legislative session began in Albany earlier this month, there was an immediate shake - up of the long - dormant state Senate ethics committee, throwing the always - simmering chamber to a quick boil. (gothamgazette.com)
Rotifers are able to survive extremely hostile environments by slipping into a dehydrated dormant state. (discovermagazine.com)