urgency

noun

ur·​gen·​cy ˈər-jən(t)-sē 

plural urgencies

1

: the quality or state of being urgent : insistence

2

: a force or impulse that impels or constrains : urge

Examples of urgency in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Such a paradox exposes the fragility of collective memory, and the urgency of returning to it. —Matthew Carey, Deadline, 14 Nov. 2025

As the industry enters a phase where countries worldwide develop their own microdrama ecosystems reflecting local cultures and tastes — the conference’s themes of origins, ecosystem and future developments take on strategic urgency. —Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 13 Nov. 2025

Advertisement The urgency is clear. —Anacláudia Rossbach, Time, 13 Nov. 2025

At the same time, Foy adds, sharing the screen with an actual goshawk mustered a kind of courage perhaps only made possible by the urgency of filmmaking. —Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 12 Nov. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing urgency

• a matter of urgency/importance

Rhymes for urgency

• counterinsurgency
• emergency
• insurgency
• nonemergency

Kids Definition

urgency

noun

ur·​gen·​cy ˈər-jən-sē 

: the quality or state of being urgent

Medical Definition

urgency

noun

ur·​gen·​cy ˈər-jən-sē 

plural urgencies

: a sudden compelling need to urinate or defecate