E*mer"gen*cy (?), n.; pl. Emergencies (#). [See Emergence.]
1. Sudden or unexpected appearance; an unforeseen occurrence; a sudden occasion.
Most our rarities have been found out by casual emergency.
Glanvill.
2. An unforeseen occurrence or combination of circumstances which calls for immediate action or remedy; pressing necessity; exigency.
To whom she might her doubts propose,
On all emergencies that rose.
Swift.
A safe counselor in most difficult emergencies.
Brougham.
Syn. -- Crisis; conjuncture; exigency; pinch; strait; necessity.
© Webster 1913. | 
