What does the term "dormant" mean?

The term "dormant" refers to a state of being inactive or asleep. In various contexts, such as biology, it can describe seeds or organisms that are in a state of rest or inactivity, often until conditions become favorable for growth or activity. This concept can also apply to skills, processes, or systems that are not currently in use but have the potential to become active again when stimulated.

In contrast, the other options suggest states of engagement or alertness, which directly oppose the definition of "dormant." For example, being unwilling to share thoughts implies a lack of communication, whereas being full of energy and life or always being alert indicates a state of activity and engagement. Each of these alternatives highlights characteristics that do not align with the essence of dormancy, thereby reinforcing why the definition of being "asleep or inactive" is the most accurate representation of the term.