dormancy
UK: ˈdɔːmənsi | US: ˈdɔːrmənsi
n. a state of reduced metabolic activity or temporary inactivity, often to survive unfavorable conditions
n. (biology) a period in which an organism's growth or development is paused
The word "dormancy" traces back to Latin dormire (to sleep), preserved in the root dorm-. The suffix -ancy (from Latin -antia) denotes a state or condition. Thus, "dormancy" literally means "the state of sleeping," metaphorically extended to describe biological inactivity. The term reflects how organisms "sleep" through harsh seasons or environments, later reviving—a vivid analogy to natural cycles.
Seeds remain in dormancy until conditions are right for germination.
Bears enter dormancy during winter, surviving on stored fat.
The volcano's dormancy lasted centuries before its sudden eruption.
Financial markets sometimes experience periods of dormancy with low trading activity.
Scientists study plant dormancy to improve crop resilience.