Dormant
easyNeutral toneDOR-munt
adjective
Definition
temporarily inactive but capable of becoming active
Memory hook
DORMant: like a college DORM at 3 p.m., everyone's asleep but ready to spring back to life.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The volcano had lain dormant for centuries before its sudden eruption.”
“Her ambition, dormant for years, reawakened when the right offer arrived.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The volcano had lain ______ for centuries before its sudden eruption.”
Show answer
dormant
Categories
GRE Tip
Dormant is a easy-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "inactive" or "latent" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "active".
Related GRE Words
quiescent
In a state of inactivity or dormancy
inert
lacking the power to move or act; sluggish or chemically inactive
desiccate
to dry out completely; to drain of vitality
lassitude
weariness or lack of energy
lethargic
Affected by lethargy; sluggish and apathetic
lethargy
A lack of energy and enthusiasm; sluggishness
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