latent learning

[ leyt-nt lur-ning ]

noun

1. Psychology. the unconscious acquisition and retention of knowledge or skills without demonstrating them until the need arises or a reward or reinforcement is offered:

   The idea of latent learning suggests that animals, and people, may learn simply by experiencing or watching.

latent learning

noun

1. psychol learning mediated neither by reward nor by the expectation of reward

Word History and Origins

Origin of latent learning¹

First recorded in 1925–30