The word "latent" means that something is present, but not yet visible, active, or realized. It refers to something that is hidden or dormant, waiting to be discovered or expressed. Full definition
When liquid water freezes, to become solid ice, there is never any heating of the water due to the removal of the 80 calories per gram of latent heat energy of fusion. (wattsupwiththat.com)
You experience the power of latent heat on a sweaty summer day. (sciencedaily.com)
The home inspector is looking for latent defects and in essence it sounds as though we might be encouraged to negotiate on patent defects. (remonline.com)