also: せんりょう
hidden dragon; person biding their time; heir waiting to ascend the throne; great talent yet to make their mark
Literary Chinese-derived term for a person of great ability or potential who is currently hidden or waiting for the right moment. Often used metaphorically for a capable person lying low, a crown prince, or an unrecognized genius.
He is truly a hidden dragon. He doesn't stand out now, but he will eventually make his mark.
After a period of lying low, he finally became the company president.
Standard kanji form. The reading せんりょう is also possible but less common.
Alternate reading; せんりゅう is the more common reading.
From Chinese 潛龍／潜龙 (qiánlóng), literally 'hidden dragon'. The term originates from the I Ching (Book of Changes) and refers to a dragon that remains hidden underwater, symbolizing a person of great potential who has not yet revealed themselves.