urgency

noun

ur·​gen·​cy ˈər-jən(t)-sē How to pronounce urgency (audio)
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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
By positioning the product as a must-have, influencers generate a sense of urgency that encourages audiences to discuss and amplify the buzz. Committee Of 200, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025 The relative absence of urgency to overreach at quarterback was, in part, related to 2026. Jeff Howe, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025 That urgency drives City of Hope’s push to not just treat but to act quickly, collaboratively, and with intention. Jordan French, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2025 Our employees understand the urgency of the moment and have worked hard to restore the public's trust. Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for urgency

Word History

First Known Use

1540, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of urgency was in 1540

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Cite this Entry

“Urgency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/urgency. Accessed 3 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

urgency

noun
ur·​gen·​cy ˈər-jən-sē How to pronounce urgency (audio)
: the quality or state of being urgent

Medical Definition

urgency

noun
ur·​gen·​cy ˈər-jən-sē How to pronounce urgency (audio)
plural urgencies
: a sudden compelling need to urinate or defecate

More from Merriam-Webster on urgency

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