emergence

noun

emer·​gence i-ˈmər-jən(t)s 

1

: the act or an instance of emerging

2

: any of various superficial outgrowths of plant tissue usually formed from both epidermis and immediately underlying tissues

3

: penetration of the soil surface by a newly germinated plant

Examples of emergence in a Sentence

the emergence of the Internet as an important means of communication

the economy's emergence from a recession

Recent Examples on the Web

That book, Caliban and the Witch, traces the emergence of witch hunts throughout medieval Western Europe amid the transition from serfdom to proto-capitalism. —Hazlitt, 4 Sep. 2024

The emergence and spread of drug-resistant pathogens in other countries may one day present a threat to Americans. —Jess Craig, Vox, 16 Aug. 2024

Harsh conditions, hailstorms, rising temperatures and the emergence of new diseases every cycle mean that many colonists in their 20s like Rain have been orphaned. —David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 14 Aug. 2024

While the liquor accords of the past could often smell cheap and sickly sweet, the emergence of these artisanal versions has completely now feel unique, comforting, and yes, intoxicating—delivering all the appeal of these notes without the hangover. —Michael Stefanov, Robb Report, 13 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1704, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing emergence

• re-emergence

Kids Definition

emergence

noun

emer·​gence i-ˈmər-jən(t)s 

: the act or an instance of emerging

Medical Definition

emergence

noun

emer·​gence i-ˈmər-jən(t)s 

: a recovering of consciousness (as from anesthesia)