# latency

/ˈɫeɪtənsi/ (US) · /lˈeɪtnsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/latency
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the delay between when you do something and when you see the result. In technology, it usually refers to how fast data travels over a network.

For teachers: the delay between a stimulus and a response, or the time elapsed between a command and its execution. Often refers to the lag in data transmission within a computer system or network.

## Examples

- High latency makes online gaming very difficult.
- The new fiber-optic cables significantly reduced the network latency for users in the remote office.
- In medical diagnostics, the latency period refers to the interval between exposure to a pathogen and the first appearance of clinical symptoms.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general concept of delay; countable when discussing specific measured intervals.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.