An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

Present but not visible, apparent, or actualized; existing as potential (Dictionary.com). → latent heat.

Etymology (EN): From L. latentem (nominative latens), pr.p. of latere “to lie hidden.”

Etymology (PE): Nahân “concealed, hid; clandestine;” Mid.Pers. nihân “secrecy, a secret place, a hiding place,” nihânik “concealed;” Av. niδāti- “deposing, deposit.”