rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryemergenceComing into existence
noun

emergence

ih-MUR-juhns/ɪˈmɜːrdʒəns/

The process of coming into existence or developing from simpler conditions.

The butterfly's emergence from its chrysalis reveals its newly developed adult form.

Three successive stages of a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis, natural process.
Etymology
eLatinout of
+mergenceLatinto dip, sink

“Out” and “sink” supply the image of rising from surrounding water. Emergence extends that image to the process of coming out of concealment or obscurity into view or existence.

In context

Robert Sapolsky22:39
And what's the whole lesson of bottom-up emergence? Watches can self-organize, again, that's the term in the field, biological systems over and over self-organize into complex adaptive systems without a watchmaker
Mothers vs Fathers, Emergence, Primate Parenting | Robert Sapolsky Father-Offspring Interviews #72

More examples

  • Researchers study the emergence of life from simple chemical compounds.
  • The novel traces the emergence of a powerful social movement.
  • Cooperation supports the emergence of shared rules within the group.

Forms

emergence · emergences

emerge verb — To come into existence or develop.

emergent adjective — Beginning to exist or take shape.

Similar words

development
Emphasizes gradual growth or change, including after something already exists.
formation
Emphasizes parts coming together to create something new.
onset
Marks when something begins rather than how it develops.