latency
UK: ˈleɪtənsi | US: ˈleɪtənsi
n. the time between a stimulus and the response to it
n. a delay before a system begins to respond
n. (computing) the time taken for data to travel between devices
latency = lat<hidden> + ency<noun suffix>
- lat (from Latin latēre, meaning "to lie hidden")
- ency (noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality, from Latin -entia)
Etymology Origin:
The word "latency" originates from the Latin latentia, derived from latēre ("to lie hidden"). It entered English in the 17th century, initially describing hidden or dormant conditions (e.g., latent heat). By the 20th century, it evolved to emphasize temporal delays, especially in computing and psychology, reflecting the "hidden time" between cause and effect.
The latency between the click and the screen response was noticeable.
Network latency can affect online gaming performance.
The study measured the latency of participants' reactions to visual stimuli.
Engineers worked to reduce the system's latency for real-time applications.
High latency in audio streaming causes frustrating delays.