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

With global plastic production continuing to rise, the urgency of the issue is undeniable. —Editorial, Boston Herald, 27 Apr. 2026

The urgency was underscored in parliament last week, where the National Nuclear Regulator CEO Ditebogo Kgomo told lawmakers that the government was casting a wide net to source reactor operators, safety specialists, and engineering consultants. —Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 27 Apr. 2026

That urgency is driving more community involvement. —Spencer Wilson, CBS News, 27 Apr. 2026

General manager Brad Holmes acknowledged Saturday that this year’s preparation carried a little bit more fire, fueled by the frustration of falling short and a heightened sense of urgency that defined every decision. —Bob Tripi, Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026

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