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."
Qui*es"cent, n. (Gram.) A
silent letter. M. Stuart.