Main Entry: emer·gen·cy

Pronunciation: \i-ˈmər-jənt-sē\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural emer·gen·cies

Usage: often attributive

Date: circa 1631

1 : an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action
2 : an urgent need for assistance or relief <the governor declared a state of emergency after the flood>

synonyms see juncture