Which word describes a hidden or dormant presence?

The term that describes a hidden or dormant presence is "latent." In various contexts, such as psychology, medicine, and general usage, "latent" refers to something that exists but is not currently visible or active. For instance, in medical terms, a latent infection may not show symptoms even though the pathogen is present in the body. Similarly, in a psychological context, latent traits or behaviors may be buried beneath the surface yet still influence an individual's actions or thoughts.

The other options, like "manifest" and "obvious," suggest clarity and visibility, which do not align with the concept of something being hidden or dormant. "Clear" similarly implies transparency and easy understanding, which contrasts with the essence of a hidden presence. Therefore, "latent" accurately conveys the idea of something that is present but not immediately apparent or active.