The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook by BETTER WORDS R. B. Skinner

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dormant

adjective

/ˈdɔːm(ə)nt/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of dormant

Referring to a state of inactivity, slumber, or temporary suspension of growth or action.
"The volcano is currently dormant but may erupt at any time."

Detailed meaning of dormant

When something is described as dormant, it means it is currently not functioning or exhibiting its usual characteristics. This term is often used in various contexts, such as in biology, where dormant seeds or plants are temporarily inactive and not actively growing, awaiting the right conditions to resume their life processes. In the financial world, dormant accounts are those that have had no recent activity or transactions. Metaphorically, people may also describe certain talents or potential within themselves as dormant if they have not been utilized or expressed for a long period. "Dormant" suggests a temporary or reversible state of rest or inactivity, implying the potential for future awakening or activity when the right circumstances arise.

Example sentences containing dormant

1. The flower bulbs lay dormant until the spring thaw.
2. The seeds were dormant until they were exposed to light and water.
3. The bear spent the winter months in a dormant state.
4. The project was dormant for several years before being revived.
5. The dormant volcano was once an active volcano.
6. Many species of insects spend the winter months in a dormant state.

History and etymology of dormant

The adjective 'dormant' has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'dormire,' which means 'to sleep.' In its original Latin form, 'dormans,' it was used to describe something that is sleeping or in a state of slumber. Over time, as Latin evolved into Old French and then into Middle English, the term 'dormant' came to be associated not only with physical sleep but also with a state of inactivity or temporary suspension of growth or action. When we describe something as 'dormant' today, we are emphasizing its state of rest or inaction, often with the implication that it has the potential to awaken or become active again in the future. The etymology of 'dormant' underscores its connection to the concept of sleep and rest, reflecting the idea of something lying in a state of temporary dormancy until circumstances or conditions change.

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Further usage examples of dormant

1. The company had a dormant period before a new product was launched.
2. The virus can remain dormant in the body for years before showing symptoms.
3. The plant remained dormant until the conditions were just right.
4. The company had several dormant patents that they eventually used.
5. The idea was dormant for years before the inventor had the resources to pursue it.
6. The volcano remained dormant for centuries, but its potential danger was always present.
7. During the cold winter months, many animals go into a dormant state to conserve energy.
8. The once-thriving town now has a dormant economy, waiting for revitalization.
9. His dormant talent for painting awakened when he retired.
10. The virus can stay dormant in the body for extended periods.
11. The project has been dormant for years, but it may be time to revive it.
12. The garden's dormant plants burst into life with the arrival of spring.
13. The dormant volcano suddenly erupted, causing widespread panic.
14. The company's expansion plans were put on hold during the dormant economic period.
15. The old mine had been dormant for decades until it was reopened.
16. The disease can remain dormant until triggered by certain factors.
17. Her artistic talent lay dormant until she decided to pursue it seriously.
18. The town's dormant charm was rediscovered by tourists.
19. The machine lay dormant until the technician arrived to repair it.
20. The dormant software bug only became apparent after the system update.
21. The dormant franchise regained popularity with a new generation of fans.
22. His dormant interest in history was rekindled by a fascinating documentary.
23. The dormant potential of the unused land was finally realized with a new development project.
24. The dormant volcano's activity worried nearby residents.
25. The old building stood dormant until a visionary architect transformed it into a vibrant cultural center.