Qui*es"cent (?), a. [L. quiescens, -entis, p. pr. of quiescere: cf. F. quiescent. See Quiesce.]
1.
Being in a state of repose; at rest; still; not moving; as, a quiescent body or fluid.
2.
Not ruffed with passion; unagitated; not in action; not excited; quiet; dormant; resting.
In times of national security, the feeling of patriotism . . . is so quiescent that it seems hardly to exist.
Prof. Wilson.
3. Gram.
Not sounded; silent; as, y is quiescent in "day" and "say."
© Webster 1913.
Qui*es"cent, n. Gram.
A silent letter.
M. Stuart.
© Webster 1913.