Dormant
Adjective
Definition: In a state of inactivity, but with the potential for development or action.
Synonyms: Idle, Inactive, Latent, Quiescent
Antonyms: Active, Awake, Alert
Examples:
- The volcano has been dormant for centuries.
- The seeds lie dormant in the soil during winter.
Mnemonics:
- Think of a dormant volcano, lying quiet but capable of eruption.
- The idea of something waiting, like a dormant seed, for the right conditions to grow.
Etymology:
Origin:
1610s, from French "dormant" (feminine dormante), present participle of dormir "to sleep,"
Historical Usage:The term "dormant" has been used to describe sleeping or inactive states since its origin.
Related Idioms:
Idiom:
"Dormant account"
Explanation:Refers to a bank account without any activity or transactions for a long period of time.
Misconceptions:
Misconception:
Using "dormant" to describe something completely inactive with no potential for activity.
Explanation:"Dormant" implies a temporary state of inactivity, with the possibility of future development or action.