The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

quiescent

IPA:

Dictionary definition of quiescent

In state of inactivity or dormancy, often used to describe something or someone that is temporarily inactive but has the potential to become active again.
"The street was quiescent in the early morning hours."

Detailed meaning of quiescent

It can also refer to a state of peaceful calm or tranquility. For example, a volcano may be described as quiescent if it is not currently erupting but has the potential to do so in the future. Similarly, a person may be described as quiescent if they are resting or sleeping. The term can also be used to describe a situation or atmosphere that is quiet and peaceful, such as a quiescent forest.

Example sentences containing quiescent

1. The quiescent lake mirrored the surrounding mountains.
2. The company was quiescent during the pandemic.
3. The patient was quiescent after the surgery.
4. The forest was quiescent at night.
5. The volcano was thought to be quiescent, but it suddenly erupted.
6. The desert was quiescent during the day but came alive at night.

History and etymology of quiescent

The adjective 'quiescent' has its origins in Latin, stemming from the word 'quiescens,' which is the present participle of 'quiescere.' In Latin, 'quiescere' means 'to rest' or 'to be still.' 'Quiescentia' was used to describe a state of rest or inactivity. As the term was adopted into English, it retained this essential meaning, referring to a state of inactivity or dormancy, often used to describe something or someone that is temporarily inactive but has the potential to become active again. 'Quiescent' embodies the idea of a quiet or dormant state, suggesting a period of rest or stillness that may give way to renewed activity in the future. The etymology of 'quiescent' underscores the concept of rest and inactivity, emphasizing the potential for future reawakening or activity.

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Further usage examples of quiescent

1. The audience was quiescent as they waited for the play to start.
2. The classroom was quiescent while the teacher was lecturing.
3. The system was quiescent until a new update was installed.
4. The garden was quiescent in the winter, but it bloomed in the spring.
5. The city was quiescent during the lockdown.
6. The volcano remained quiescent for decades, lulling locals into a false sense of security.
7. The patient's quiescent symptoms suddenly flared up, requiring immediate medical attention.
8. The stock market can be quiescent for weeks before experiencing a sudden surge.
9. The lake's quiescent surface concealed its deep, churning currents.
10. In the winter, many animals go into a quiescent state to conserve energy.
11. The quiescent town sprang to life during the annual festival.
12. His quiescent ambition awakened when he discovered a newfound passion.
13. The quiescent caterpillar underwent a remarkable transformation into a butterfly.
14. The forest appears quiescent, but it teems with hidden life.
15. After a busy week, he sought the quiescent solitude of the mountains.
16. The old factory now stands quiescent, a relic of a bygone era.
17. Her quiescent demeanor belied her inner turmoil.
18. The dormant volcano is considered quiescent but not extinct.
19. The quiescent neighborhood enjoyed a rare moment of tranquility.
20. The artist's quiescent period gave way to a burst of creativity.
21. The quiescent riverbanks came alive with blooming wildflowers.
22. The quiescent cell was poised to divide and multiply.
23. During the long winter, the garden remained quiescent.
24. His quiescent social life was suddenly revitalized by new friendships.
25. The quiescent computer awaited the user's command to spring into action.