What does latency mean?
Latency is the delay between an input, action, or stimulus and the resulting output, response, or effect. The term is especially common in computing and telecommunications, where it describes how long data takes to travel through a network and be processed. Low latency is important for interactive applications such as video calls, online gaming, remote work, and live audio, because even a brief delay can make conversation or coordination feel awkward. Latency can also refer more generally to the interval before something becomes apparent, including physiological response times. Unlike bandwidth, which measures the capacity of a connection to carry data, latency measures delay rather than data volume. In ordinary conversation, the word is precise and technical, but its everyday use often means simply a noticeable pause or lag in a system's response.
nounThe delay between an action or input and the corresponding response, especially the time required to transmit and process data in a communications or computer system.
- The time delay between the initiation of an operation and its response or output, especially in computing, telecommunications, and audio technology.
- A period of delay before an event, process, or effect becomes apparent.
- The interval between a stimulus and the beginning of a physiological response.
"Remote musicians need to minimize latency to avoid noticeable delays between performers."
"The database query was fast, but network latency made the page feel sluggish."
"There is a short latency between pressing the key and hearing the confirmation tone."
Used when referring to multiple delays or response times, especially in different systems or transactions.
"The service has low latencies across its international network."
In an online conversation, every brief hesitation can be the visible result of network latency traveling from one participant to the other and back.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does latency come from?
Latency comes from Latin latens, the present participle of latēre, meaning “to lie hidden,” through French latence. It entered English in the early 17th century with the sense of a hidden or latent condition before being applied more broadly to delay. English latent and latently ultimately share the same Latin participle.
How latency is actually used
The word is most common in computing, telecommunications, audio, and other technical settings. It is distinguished from bandwidth, which concerns the amount of data that can be transmitted at once rather than how long transmission takes.
Easily confused with latency
Latency is a measured delay, whereas latent means existing but not yet apparent or active.