ScienceAugust 15, 2026
quiescent
kwee-ES-unt
Definition
Characterized by a state of inactivity, dormancy, or stillness.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word 'quiescere,' meaning to become quiet or rest. It entered English in the 17th century to describe something that is temporarily at rest or inactive.
In the news
The article uses the word to describe the state of an ant colony that has returned to a quiet, inactive period after a wave of collective movement, preventing unnecessary energy expenditure.
Scientists simulating ant swarms find a 'first mover' can set the colony in motion
Read the full article ↗Phys.org