Main Entry: emer·gen·cy

Pronunciation: \i-ˈmər-jən-sē\

Function: noun

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

: an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action: as a : a sudden bodily alteration (as a ruptured appendix or surgical shock) such as is likely to require immediate medical attention b : a usually distressing event or condition that can often be anticipated or prepared for but seldom exactly foreseen