noun
emergency
A serious unexpected situation requiring immediate action.
The nurse calls for help when a medical emergency occurs.
Etymology
The word is related to emergence, the act of coming into view. An emergency is a situation that arises and demands action, with the modern sense emphasizing urgency and danger.
More examples
- In an emergency, call 911 and stay on the line.
- We keep a flashlight and extra batteries for emergencies.
- A gas leak in the building is an emergency.
Forms
emergency · emergencies