What does the root word lat mean?

The root word "lat" doesn't have a consistent meaning on its own. It's often part of a larger word, and its meaning depends on the context.

For example:

* Lateral: This word uses "lat" to mean "side," as in "the lateral side of the road."

* Latitude: Here, "lat" refers to "width," as in "the latitude of a place."

* Latent: In this case, "lat" signifies "hidden," as in "latent talent."

So, to understand the meaning of "lat," you need to look at the full word and its context.